Design leaders are currently mishandling AI in a way similar to how they approached mobile in 2008. Back then, leaders could delegate responsibility and wait for clear patterns to emerge. Today, AI's rapid evolution is behavioral, not spatial, requiring a more hands-on leadership style. Many leaders remain stuck in outdated models of stable-era leadership that focused on scaling established systems rather than adapting to new complexities. The shift in design material means leaders must now shape user interactions without full control over behaviors, making it essential to understand the nuances of AI systems. The article emphasizes that software has transitioned from deterministic behaviors—where outcomes were predictable—to adaptive models that change based on user interaction. This complexity means that traditional metrics like speed and accuracy are no longer sufficient. For example, in an AI-driven customer support system, even if resolution rates are high, users may still find the experience frustrating due to a lack of empathy and understanding in the AI's responses. If leaders don't recognize these new dimensions of quality, teams will continue optimizing for outdated standards, resulting in hollow user experiences. Leadership now requires a deep engagement with the material. Design leaders should actively use AI tools, experiment, and understand the models to develop sound judgment. They need to learn how to evaluate tone and consistency in AI outputs and translate these insights into practical guidelines for their teams. This hands-on approach is crucial for setting new standards and ensuring that the organization adapts to the evolving landscape of design, where emotional resonance and contextual awareness play significant roles in user trust and satisfaction.