AI-augmented development is a software engineering approach where AI-powered tools are integrated into the development workflow to assist engineers across every stage of the software lifecycle, from planning and task estimation through coding and testing to deployment and maintenance. AI handles repetitive and mechanical tasks like generating boilerplate code, creating test cases, detecting code smells, and producing documentation, while humans retain full control over architectural decisions, business logic, and final code quality. The goal is to increase development speed and consistency without replacing engineering judgment or reducing the team's ownership of the product.