It's not because it looks useless to consumers that it actually is. There were about 10-15 potential security issues fixed, the html5 gamepad api was given an update to follow the standards, input types color and number were implemented and some css prefixes were removed as they now follow the standard as well.
Since HTML moved from "releases" (1, 2, 3, 4, X, 5, ...) to a living standard continuously being developed there will practically ALWAYS be something new to implement or update. This will make the web evolve more rapidly than before. We don't want to be stuck with Flash for another 10 years, I think.
Following your train of thought, cars wouldn't need more secure locks, more economical engines, air conditioning or navigation either. After all it sort of locks, drives, has windows to open and there's always paper maps and traffic signs to navigate with, right?