The European Central Bank (ECB) unveiled the concept for the digital euro (CBDC) app, which will meet the highest accessibility standards.
The ECB published a list of features planned for the official digital euro app. The regulator said the application will comply with the requirements of European Accessibility Act and the EN 301 549 standard, while exceeding them in several areas. Testing is scheduled for 2027.
The ECB said accessibility and inclusion have been core principles of the digital euro project since its inception. The app is intended to provide equal access to basic CBDC services for all euro area residents, regardless of their physical abilities, perceptual needs, or level of digital literacy.
The project is based on Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), adapted for mobile payment applications. The guidelines cover visual accessibility, ease of navigation, and cognitive accessibility.
The app’s planned features include:
- enhanced interface display settings;
- full app control using a keyboard;
- screen reader support;
- session timeout warnings;
- simplified interface language;
- error prevention mechanisms for data entry;
- reduced motion settings.
According to ECB Executive Board member Piero Cipollone, the digital euro, like cash, should remain a public good that is accessible to every European. He said the ECB supports the European Parliament’s legislative proposal, which includes free user access to the digital euro app.
The app’s concept was developed in cooperation with euro area national central banks, consumer organizations, and digital accessibility experts. In 2027, ECB staff and representatives from 19 national central banks will conduct additional usability and accessibility testing in cooperation with ONCE Foundation.
Under the proposed regulation, the official app will become one of the ways to access the basic functions of the CBDC. Payment service providers will remain the primary point of contact for most users. At the same time, Europeans will be able to choose the method that best suits their needs for using the digital euro.
The ECB continues to develop technical standards for the digital euro and has selected 36 payment service providers (PSPs) to participate in the CBDC testing program.
