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ECB launches digital euro pilot usability and accessibility testing in 2027
The ECB set deadlines of Oct. 27, 2026 for merchants to apply and Nov. 9, 2026 for private companies to submit collaboration expressions of interest.
On July 30, 2026, the European Central Bank outlined accessibility features for the digital euro app and said it will begin usability and accessibility testing as part of the digital euro pilot in 2027, according to an ECB press release.
On Sept. 15, 2026, the ECB issued a call for expressions of interest inviting e-commerce and mobile commerce merchants operating in the euro area to join the pilot, with applications due Oct. 27, 2026.
The ECB also opened a separate call on Sept. 28, 2026 for private companies and organizations to collaborate on how digital euro infrastructure could support their innovation efforts, with applications due Nov. 9, 2026.
An ECB press release dated Sept. 23, 2026 reported that almost ten million people across Europe and beyond have taken part, as described in the ECB announcement referenced in the pilot-related updates.