Generative AI has failed to replace SaaS so far...It has disrupted plenty of other lower verticals in writing, proof reading, translation, graphics design, tutorials, searching case law etc. Unless the progress stops, you can't assume LLM efficacy has hit a ceiling.

Agents, properly setup can partially accomplish what you described already.

This is a spot-on observation about 'AI as a garnish.' In my own work, I've seen many teams rush to add a chat interface just to say they have AI, without solving any core user problems. It often does make the product more complicated. I wonder if the path to true replacement starts in smaller, vertical niches rather than trying to overhaul giants like Excel from day one?

Please don't do this. Ask HN isn't your blogging platform. Per the guidelines its for asking questions of the community.

very true, most end-users don't care what we call it or how it works--most drivers don't know how their brakes work, but they better

simplify with AI hasn't quite caught on lol