What is the main difference between UI (User Interface) and UX (User Experience)?

The main difference between UI (User Interface) and UX (User Experience) lies in their specific focuses within the design process. UI design is primarily concerned with the layout and visual elements of an application or website. This includes the design of buttons, icons, spacing, colors, typography, and overall aesthetics that users interact with. The goal of UI is to create an intuitive and visually appealing interface that facilitates a smooth interaction with the system.

On the other hand, UX design encompasses the overall functionality and experience that a user has with a product. This includes not only the aesthetic aspects but also how the product fulfills user needs, the ease of use, and the overall journey a user takes when interacting with the system. UX is broader and aims to ensure that the user's experience is enjoyable, efficient, and meaningful, taking into consideration elements such as usability, accessibility, and interaction design.

In summary, UI is about the specific visual and interactive elements that users engage with, while UX is about the overall experience and satisfaction users derive from that interaction. This distinction highlights how both areas, although interconnected, have different core focuses in the design process.