User experience (UX) plays a critical role in product design by focusing on how users interact with a product. It emphasizes understanding user needs, behaviors, and motivations through research and testing, aiming to create a seamless and enjoyable interaction. Effective UX design leads to increased user satisfaction, fostering brand loyalty and higher conversion rates. By prioritizing usability and accessibility, designers can ensure that products not only meet functional requirements but also resonate emotionally with users.