AI is no longer just a "trend" in 2026—it’s a core part of a designer’s toolkit. But the secret to success isn't about letting AI do your job. It’s about using AI to handle the tedious tasks so you can focus on what humans do best: empathy, strategy, and complex problem-solving. Here is how to integrate AI into your workflow effectively this year. 1. Discovery and Ideation: Breaking the Blank Page AI is your best brainstorming partner when you're stuck. However, the quality of the ideas depends on your input. Move Beyond Generic Prompts: Don’t just ask for "app ideas." Provide context. Bad: "Ideas for a focus app." Good: "Generate 10 unconventional ways to help remote freelancers manage context switching. Target users: ages 25-40, struggling with burnout." The "Creative Catalyst" Method: Use AI to generate 20 wildly different approaches. Don’t copy them—use them to spark a thought you hadn't considered. Top Tool for 202...