Alpha testers are individuals who participate in the early testing phase of a product, typically software or video games. Their main role is to identify bugs, usability issues, and other problems before the product is released to a wider audience. This phase occurs before the beta testing stage and often involves a limited group of users who provide feedback directly to the development team. These testers usually have a close relationship with the developers, allowing for direct communication about their experiences. Alpha testing helps ensure that the product, such as a new video game or application, meets quality standards and functions as intended before it reaches beta testers and the general public.