EUDI Wallet gets a test environment

The European Digital Identity Wallet (EUDI) project is getting a test environment where companies and administration can test functions and use cases. The sandbox is provided by the Federal Ministry for Digital and State Modernization (BMDS) and the Federal Agency for Disruptive Innovations (SPRIND). Digital Minister Karsten Wildberger spoke of a “milestone” in the development of the wallet. The goal of the EUDI is to provide EU citizens with a free and secure application with which they can identify themselves digitally across the EU in the future.

First, the basic function of digital identification through Person Identification Data (PID) can be tested in the sandbox. In the next step, Electronic Attestations of Attributes (EAA) will be testable. Further functions will follow successively. The results of the test series will then also be incorporated into the further development of the respective use cases and into the technical design of the state EUDI wallet, explained the BMDS.

First stage available early 2027

In early 2027, it is finally expected to be ready, and the first stage of the EUDI wallet will be made publicly available. In addition to the digital identity card, the smartphone wallet will then also be able to contain other official or private credentials, such as the driver's license. The BMDS speaks of an iterative development process, through which further functions and credentials will be gradually added to the wallet.

However, the state does not want to remain the sole provider: twelve months after its introduction, alternative wallet providers will also be able to certify their offerings as EUDI wallets in Germany and have them officially recognized. This is intended to create a uniform framework for an ecosystem of digital identity services that also integrates at the EU level. Organizations wishing to participate in the test can find further information on access and requirements here.

Together with the Free State of Saxony and its state capital Dresden, the BMDS is also conducting a pilot project to test the EUDI wallet, in which the BundID also plays a role in integrating administrative services. In addition to the EUDI wallet for citizens, the EU is also planning a European Business Wallet, which companies can use to identify themselves across the EU in business transactions and with authorities. It is also planned that it can be used to sign, time-stamp, or seal documents.

(axk)