What Is Pi (Pi Network)? │ Features, How It Works, and Future Outlook

What Is Pi Network?

**Pi Network** is a blockchain project designed to make cryptocurrency accessible to everyone.

Its defining feature is that anyone can participate in mining using just a smartphone. The project was launched in 2019 by a team of Stanford University researchers.

Unlike traditional mining, which requires significant computing power and specialized hardware, Pi Network allows users to mine simply by tapping a button in the app—no technical expertise required.

This user-friendly approach has driven global adoption, with over 60 million users worldwide.

Background and Developer Information

Pi Network was developed by Dr. Nicolas Kokkalis and Dr. Chengdiao Fan, both Stanford University researchers.

Their goal was to create a cryptocurrency that anyone could use, regardless of technical background, by enabling participation through smartphones.

Dr. Nicolas Kokkalis

• Holds a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from Stanford
• Specializes in distributed systems and human-computer interaction
• Leads technical development with a focus on user-friendly solutions

Dr. Chengdiao Fan

• Expert in human behavior and social networks
• Directs overall product strategy, community growth, and app usability

The team’s first priority was to break down the barrier that “cryptocurrency is difficult.”

They sought to overhaul the traditional system, which required costly equipment and expert knowledge, to create a more inclusive environment—laying the foundation for Pi Network.

Relationship Between Pi Network and Pi Coin

Pi Network is the name of the entire platform, while **Pi Coin (Pi)** is the currency used within that platform.

This is similar to how ETH operates within the Ethereum network.

Pi Network provides the core infrastructure—apps, wallets, and blockchain—while Pi Coin is used for:

• Transfers
• In-app transactions
• Future payments

In essence, Pi Coin derives its value from the existence of the Pi Network platform. When users mine Pi on their smartphones, they are earning a currency that operates on this infrastructure.

Key Features and Architecture of Pi Network

Pi Network stands out from other cryptocurrencies with several unique features.

At its core are two pillars: a system that allows participation using only a smartphone, and a security model based on social trust. Here are four key aspects:

Mobile Mining System

With Pi Network, users can mine directly from their smartphones by opening the app and tapping a button each day to earn Pi.

Unlike Bitcoin, there’s no need for high computing power.

• No special hardware required
• Minimal battery consumption
• No complicated setup

This design lets even beginners start mining easily and confidently.

User Roles

Pi Network divides participation into four roles, so users can contribute at their own pace.

Pioneer

The core user who checks in daily and mines via the app.

Contributor

Registers trusted contacts to form a security circle.

Ambassador

Grows the community through invitations—each new participant slightly increases the user’s mining speed.

Node Operator

Runs a Pi node on a computer to help stabilize the network.

Everyone, from beginners to advanced users, can choose their level of involvement.

Stellar Consensus Protocol

Pi Network doesn’t use energy-intensive consensus like Bitcoin. Instead, it implements the **Stellar Consensus Protocol (SCP)**.

Key advantages include:

• Drastically reduced power consumption
• Efficient processing of many transactions

This enables a lightweight, mobile-centric blockchain network.

Security Circles

Pi Network uses user “trust” as the main pillar of its security. By registering people you know personally, the system helps prevent fraud and abuse across the network.

• Prevents bots
• Stops impersonation
• Suppresses fraudulent mining

Instead of relying on computational power, the network leverages human relationships to enhance security.

Pi Network Tokenomics

The tokenomics of Pi Network refers to how much Pi Coin is issued and how it’s distributed.

Understanding this structure clarifies Pi Coin’s growth potential and risks.

Total Supply and Distribution Policy

The total supply of Pi Coin is capped at 100 billion, with the majority allocated to the community.

• Community: 80%
  • Mining rewards via smartphone
  • Funds for ecosystem growth
  • Liquidity reserves
• Development Team: 20%
  • For project management and maintenance
  • For technical development and service expansion

The development team’s share is released gradually, not all at once.

This staged release helps prevent sudden large inflows of Pi to the market, which could destabilize the price.

How to Sell Pi Coin

With Pi Network’s open mainnet, Pi Coin can now be sold on various international exchanges.

Here are the step-by-step procedures, especially for first-time sellers:

Step 1: Complete KYC and Migration

To sell Pi Coin, you must first complete identity verification (KYC) within the Pi app.

Then, transfer your Pi from the app to a **mainnet wallet**.

Without completing both steps, you cannot send Pi to external exchanges.

Step 2: Choose a Supported Exchange

Several major international exchanges now support Pi Coin trading.

Choose an exchange with a proven track record for reliability and liquidity.

Step 3: Transfer Pi from Your Pi Wallet to the Exchange

1. Get a “PI deposit address” from the exchange
2. Open your Pi wallet
3. Copy and paste the deposit address
4. Enter the amount, review, and send

On the blockchain, transfers to the wrong address can’t be reversed. If you’re unsure, start with a small test transfer.

Step 4: Place a Sell Order

1. Go to the trading section and select your trading pair
2. Choose a market order (immediate sale) or a limit order (set your price)
3. Enter the amount of Pi to sell
4. Review and confirm your order

Since Pi trading volume can be low at times, splitting large sales into multiple transactions can help avoid price drops.

Future Outlook for Pi Network

Until recently, Pi Network was seen mainly as a smartphone mining app.

Since the open mainnet launch, it’s moving toward full-scale blockchain adoption.

Here are the main points to consider for its future trajectory:

Pushing for Decentralization

Pi Network is continually updating its systems and improving node environments to ensure network stability.

Growth in node numbers means greater decentralization, and the project is actively promoting node operations.

Key benefits of decentralization:

• Less reliance on a small group of administrators
• Higher network security

However, the degree of decentralization and changes in central oversight will depend on future project governance.

Upgrades to Pi App Studio for Developers

Recent updates have greatly enhanced Pi App Studio’s functionality.

Major improvements:

• Download app code for local editing and re-uploading
• Improved “My Apps” UI with better search and sorting
• Increased the number of apps per user
• Higher Pi allocation limits for in-app use

These upgrades make it easier for developers to create Pi-enabled apps.

This provides a stronger foundation for dApps development and small-scale service experiments, paving the way for more real-world Pi use cases.

Enhanced Developer Environment

Since the open mainnet launch, Pi Network has been strengthening its developer support infrastructure.

With the upgraded Pi App Studio, increased app development will naturally expand opportunities to use Pi.

As more apps emerge, expect the following:

• More opportunities to use Pi
• Greater utility as a digital currency

That said, it’s still unclear how many high-usage apps will emerge—future growth potential will determine this.

Growing Practical Use Cases

More services in Pi Browser now accept Pi Coin.

• Online shopping
• Mini-games
• Small-scale apps

This signals a positive trend—Pi is evolving from a mining-only token to a medium of value exchange in actual apps.

However, large-scale, major services have yet to launch, and the platform remains in a growth phase.

Reliable data on user numbers and transaction volume will take time to accumulate.

Risks and Warnings for Pi Network

Pi Network is attracting significant attention, but focusing only on its advantages could lead to regret.

Here are important risks and cautions to consider before getting involved:

Exchange Listing Challenges

While Pi Coin is now tradable, some major exchanges are still cautious about listing it.

Key reasons for this caution include:

• Unclear actual user base
• Unconventional mining mechanism
• Limited external transparency

Until listings are more widespread, liquidity will be limited and the price may remain highly volatile.

Criticism of the Invitation Model

Pi Network’s community grows through invitations.

This model has drawn comparisons to multi-level marketing and Ponzi schemes.

The following factors can lead to misunderstandings:

• Mining speed increases as you invite others
• Community growth is built into the system’s structure

Invitations aren’t inherently negative, but joining without a clear understanding of the system can lead to unrealistic expectations. Exercise caution.

Legal and Regulatory Risks

Most Pi Network users trade on overseas exchanges.

Because regulatory rules vary by country, unexpected situations can arise.

• Sudden trading restrictions
• Temporary service suspensions
• More stringent account verification requirements

For newcomers especially, your choice of exchange has a major impact on your security. Make sure to do your research.

Summary

Pi Network is a project that lowers the barrier to cryptocurrency by allowing participation using only a smartphone.

Its standout strength is that you don’t need expensive equipment or advanced knowledge, making it accessible for those new to crypto.

If you’re considering trading Pi Coin, always choose a trusted exchange.

Using exchanges with a wide range of listed assets and high liquidity will make trading smoother and help control risk.

FAQ

Is PI cryptocurrency risky?

Pi Network is a legitimate blockchain project with established risk controls. However, as with any cryptocurrency, it is subject to market volatility. While broader adoption could boost value over time, invest carefully and do your own research.

What is the outlook for Pi Network?

Pi Network is poised for major growth between 2026 and 2027 as both user numbers and the ecosystem expand. Wider adoption of mobile mining and mainnet operations is expected to drive demand and increase Pi Coin trading volume.

What is the future forecast for Pi Network?

Pi Network is expected to move into full-scale mainnet operations between 2026 and 2027, driven by user growth and an expanding ecosystem. As blockchain technology gains ground, user numbers and utility should rise, positioning Pi to potentially become a mainstream cryptocurrency.

What is the price of 1 Pi on Pi Network?

Pi Network is still in the mainnet transition phase, so the official price for 1 Pi hasn’t been set. In the future, market prices will be determined by supply and demand. Watch project updates closely.

How does Pi Network work and what are its features?

Pi Network is a mobile-mined cryptocurrency. Users can mine easily via a smartphone app. It’s built on blockchain technology, allowing anyone to earn Pi tokens with minimal energy use.

How do you mine on Pi Network?

Mining on Pi Network is done through the mobile app. Users open the app and check in each day to earn Pi tokens. Power consumption is low, so battery impact is minimal. Joining a security circle boosts your mining rate.

How is Pi Network different from other cryptocurrencies?

Pi Network is optimized for smartphone mining, highly user-friendly, and low power. Its unique consensus design enables broad participation. Unlike many cryptocurrencies, Pi is engineered for accessibility and mainstream adoption.