When Everything Works the Same: How UX Becomes the Moat in the AI Era
Aadam Sumer at UX Brighton 2025 (2026)
About this talk
Many A.I. startups build similar products, making it hard to stand out. This talk explains why user experience (UX) is a powerful way to differentiate and create a lasting advantage, or “moat,” for your company.
From a venture capital perspective, we’ll share clear insights on the AI startup world and why many companies struggle to be unique. You’ll see how UX can be a strategic tool to build products that users love and that competitors can’t easily copy.
UX practitioners are in a strong position to start companies. Your skills in understanding users and designing solutions give you an edge. This talk will show you how to use these skills to create a business that lasts, with perspectives from non-UXers on why your work matters.
Finally, Adam will cover the business side - how to think about profitability alongside user needs and explore practical first steps for funding-whether or not you need investors.
Join us to discover how your UX expertise can launch a successful startup and position you as a leader in the AI era.
About Aadam
Aadam Sumer is an investor, entrepreneur, and Co-Founder of the London Venture Capital Network (LVCN), Europe’s fastest-growing community of venture capital investors, family offices, LPs and start-ups.
At the helm of landmark gatherings such as the London VC Summit and London VC Week, he brings together global investors, founders, and policymakers to shape the future of technology and finance.
Under his leadership, LVCN has partnered with more than 40 leading VC firms representing over USD 26 billion in AUM. Aadam is driven by a mission to make venture capital more accessible, diverse, and impactful, powering innovation that tackles society’s greatest challenges.
Related reading
Books, research, ideas and people referenced in this talk.
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Projects and resources
- Levi Strauss and Co.05:25The transcript uses Levi Strauss as an example of a brand whose distinctive product and story became a durable advantage.
- Dyson06:48The transcript uses Dyson as an example of product design and engineering supporting a recognisable brand.
- Netflix06:59The transcript names Netflix as an example of a service whose experience and brand help it stand out.
- Airbnb07:13The transcript names Airbnb while discussing how a coherent service experience can become a competitive moat.
- Duolingo07:23The transcript names Duolingo as an example of a product whose interaction design contributes to its identity.
- Notion07:27The transcript names Notion as an example of a product differentiated by its overall user experience.
