ECB Launches Workstreams for Digital Euro on ATMs and Payment Terminals

The European Central Bank (ECB) has opened applications for experts to join workstreams under its Rulebook Development Group (RDG) focused on integrating a potential digital euro with ATMs, payment terminals, and existing acceptance infrastructure. The initiative aims to define how the central bank digital currency (CBDC) would operate across current payment rails, emphasizing offline transactions and interoperability with European standards.

Implementation Specifications and Certification Frameworks

One workstream will create implementation specifications for ATM and terminal providers, covering communication protocols, offline functionality, and compatibility with existing payment systems. The second workstream will develop proposals for testing, certification, and approval processes for payment solutions used by payment service providers within the digital euro ecosystem. Participants will provide technical input to support a standardized rulebook, reporting to the RDG, which includes representatives from merchants, consumers, and payment providers.

Pilot Program Planned for 2027

The ECB intends to begin a 12-month digital euro pilot in the second half of 2027, involving selected European Union-licensed payment service providers, a limited number of merchants, and Eurosystem staff. The final issuance decision will follow relevant legislative approval.

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