The European Central Bank selected two provider groups on October 30 to connect payment firms and central banks to the digital euro service platform. One grouping combines Nexi Payments and Deutsche Telekom Business Solutions, while the other involves Telefónica businesses and Indra. The first contract began on September 28 for initial pilot needs, and the second is scheduled to start in May 2027. Both groups are expected to be ready in 2029 to support connectivity for potential issuance, subject to the relevant ECB decision. The procurement advances practical infrastructure but does not set a public launch date or establish that the digital euro has been approved. The ECB’s pilot FAQ, updated on October 28, describes a controlled exercise using a beta form of the digital euro with participating institutions, staff and merchants. Its operational phase is expected to begin in the second half of 2027 and last 12 months, testing technical, operational and user readiness. The FAQ says preparation does not pre-empt an issuance decision, which depends on the legislative process. Stablecoins, bank deposits and central bank payment instruments may all be digital while representing different claims and operating under different rules. The next important milestones are integration, pilot performance and decisions on any wider rollout.