The Future of UX Design Will Agentic AI Take Over Half of the Tasks

By Philip Burgess | UX Research Leader

User experience (UX) design is evolving rapidly, and one of the biggest questions today is how much of this work will be done by artificial intelligence. Agentic AI, which can act independently to complete tasks, is advancing quickly. Some experts predict that it could replace up to 50% of UX tasks in the near future. This shift will change how designers work and what skills they need. Let’s explore what this means for UX design and how professionals can prepare.

AI-generated UX wireframes on a digital workspace

What Agentic AI Means for UX Design

Agentic AI refers to systems that do not just assist but take initiative in completing tasks. In UX design, this means AI tools could handle research, prototyping, testing, and even some decision-making. Unlike traditional AI that requires constant human input, agentic AI can learn from data and act independently.

For example, an agentic AI might analyze user behavior data, identify pain points, and suggest design changes without a designer needing to guide every step. This could speed up the design process and reduce repetitive work.

Tasks AI Can Take Over

Not all UX tasks are equally suited for automation. Agentic AI will likely replace tasks that are data-driven, repetitive, or rule-based. Here are some examples:

• User research analysis: AI can process large sets of user data, spot patterns, and generate reports faster than humans.

• Wireframe and prototype creation: AI tools can produce initial design drafts based on user requirements and best practices.

• Usability testing: Automated testing can simulate user interactions and identify issues without manual oversight.

• Content personalization: AI can tailor content and interfaces to individual users based on their behavior and preferences.

  
  

These tasks make up a significant portion of the UX workflow, which is why experts estimate that agentic AI could take over about half of the workload.

Tasks That Still Need Human Touch

Despite AI’s growing capabilities, some UX tasks require human creativity, empathy, and judgment. These include:

• Understanding complex user emotions: Designing for emotional impact and subtle user needs often requires human insight.

• Strategic decision-making: Aligning UX with business goals and brand identity needs human input.

• Collaborating with stakeholders: Communication and negotiation skills are essential when working with teams and clients.

• Innovative problem-solving: Creating unique solutions for new challenges often goes beyond AI’s current abilities.

  
  

UX designers will need to focus more on these areas as AI handles routine tasks.

How Designers Can Adapt

UX professionals should prepare for this shift by developing skills that complement AI rather than compete with it. Here are some practical steps:

• Learn to work with AI tools: Understanding how to use AI-driven platforms will help designers stay relevant.

• Focus on soft skills: Communication, empathy, and creativity will become even more valuable.

• Stay updated on AI developments: Keeping track of new AI capabilities will allow designers to leverage them effectively.

• Build strategic thinking: Designers should deepen their understanding of business goals and user psychology.

  
  

By embracing AI as a partner, designers can improve their productivity and impact.

UX designer sketching ideas with AI-generated suggestions on a tablet

Real-World Examples

Some companies already use AI to assist UX design. For instance, platforms like Adobe Sensei offer AI-powered features that automate image editing and layout suggestions. Other tools analyze user feedback to prioritize design fixes.

A case study from a major e-commerce site showed that AI-driven personalization increased user engagement by 20%. The AI adjusted product recommendations and interface elements based on individual browsing patterns, improving the overall experience.

These examples show how agentic AI can handle significant parts of UX work while freeing designers to focus on higher-level tasks.

What This Means for the UX Industry

The rise of agentic AI will reshape the UX field. Job roles may change, with fewer people needed for routine tasks and more emphasis on strategic and creative work. Companies might expect faster project turnaround and more data-driven design decisions.

At the same time, ethical considerations will grow. Designers will need to ensure AI respects user privacy and avoids bias. Transparency about AI’s role in design will become important for user trust.

UX education and training programs will also evolve, incorporating AI literacy and new skill sets.