Phia cofounders Phoebe Gates and Sophia Kianni took the stage at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 to explore the evolving role of consumer AI and strategies for building long-term loyalty among Gen Z users. The duo drew on their experience leading a startup that integrates AI into everyday consumer experiences.
Gen Z Expectations: Beyond Products
Gates emphasized that Gen Z demands personalization, transparency, and ethical technology. “Gen Z expects products that not only work seamlessly but also respect their values and privacy,” she said. “Building trust and loyalty requires more than a great product—it requires genuine engagement and consistency.”
User-Centric AI Design
Kianni echoed the sentiment, stressing that startups must prioritize intuitive, user-first design while using AI to deliver value. “AI has the potential to transform daily life, but it needs to be intuitive and respectful of user data. That’s how you build lasting relationships,” she explained.
Balancing Innovation and Responsibility
The conversation also underscored the challenges consumer AI startups face in addressing data security, ethics, and the fast-paced demands of younger users. Both founders highlighted that transparency and clear communication are critical to navigating these issues without compromising innovation.
Shaping the Future of Consumer AI
Phia’s perspective reinforced a growing theme at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025: that the future of consumer AI depends on trust as much as technology. By combining personalization, ethical practices, and authentic engagement, startups can strengthen connections with the next generation of tech-savvy users.
As Disrupt 2025 continues to spotlight emerging voices, Gates and Kianni’s insights highlight the intersection of AI, consumer experience, and Gen Z values—a space that could define the next wave of tech adoption.
