Which group would be considered early adopters?

Early adopters are individuals or groups who are quick to embrace new technologies and products after they first come to market, following the innovators who are the very first to try them. This group plays a critical role in the diffusion of innovations as they provide valuable feedback and can influence the broader acceptance of a new product by sharing their experiences with others.

Choosing to try new products shortly after innovators places early adopters in a pivotal position within the adoption lifecycle. Their willingness to experiment with and endorse new ideas helps to bridge the gap between the few initial users (innovators) and the larger group of consumers who may be more hesitant to adopt new technology.

Other groups, such as those who are skeptical of new products or those who wait for others to use a product before trying it, tend to represent different stages in the adoption curve, reflecting more cautious or reserved attitudes toward innovation. Similarly, consumers who exclusively purchase older products are fundamentally opposed to the very notion of being early adopters, as they prefer established products rather than experimenting with the new. Thus, the definition and behavior of early adopters align directly with the characteristics described in the correct option.