I agree with you, and I don’t think anyone here is discounting generative design as a tool. But, is “reskinning” a mature product without many fuzzy factors (such as a mouse) the sustainable future of design? I would say it is not.
I think we may simply conclude that generative design is not a universal design tool for all product categories then.
It is true that reskinning doesnt really seem much, but consider the fact that many subsequent product development within a product line are essentially reskinning processes coupled with minor technical upgrades, no? These are the products that generate the most profit for companies. The breakthrough products, that are gonna ‘change the world’ are one in a million?
I would like to clarify that I’m not a adamant proponent of GD. I have enormous respect for the work of you as designers. It’s just that I’ve been through this entire argument doing my thesis and this was what I wanted to highlight.