As the cryptocurrency space continues to evolve, new projects are emerging with the goal of expanding access and usability. One of the most talked-about in recent years is Pi Network, a mobile-based cryptocurrency designed to bring crypto mining to the masses-no expensive hardware required. With its open mainnet now rolling out in 2025, many are asking: Can Pi become the next major player in the crypto world?
This article explores what Pi Network is, how it works, and what the future may hold as the project continues to develop.
What Is Pi Network and How Does It Work?
Pi Network was founded in 2019 by a team of Stanford graduates who aimed to create a user-friendly, energy-efficient alternative to traditional crypto mining. Rather than relying on proof-of-work mechanisms like Bitcoin, Pi uses a consensus algorithm based on the Stellar Consensus Protocol (SCP).
This protocol allows users to contribute to network security and transaction validation through a lightweight process that can run on smartphones. Users “mine” Pi coins by pressing a button daily and building trust circles-groups of verified users that help ensure network integrity.
Key components of the Pi ecosystem include:
- A mobile app that serves as the main access point for mining and account management
- The Pi Wallet, allowing users to store and transfer tokens
- The Pi Browser, supporting decentralized applications (DApps)
- A built-in KYC (Know Your Customer) process to verify users and support regulatory compliance
Pi Network emphasizes accessibility and ease of use, aiming to make cryptocurrency participation possible for anyone with a smartphone.
Adoption and User Growth
One of Pi Network’s most distinguishing features is its large global user base. According to the development team, over 60 million people have joined the network since launch, reflecting widespread interest in mobile-accessible crypto.
The growth has been supported by a referral-based system and gamified user experience, which encourages daily engagement and community-building. The KYC process, introduced in phases, enables users to verify their identities and migrate their mined Pi coins to the mainnet, where they can be used for real transactions.
While not all users are fully verified or active, the size of the network offers potential for future adoption, especially as Pi applications and services continue to expand. As the open mainnet rolls out and trading activity increases, many participants are closely watching the PI Network price to assess market valuation and early performance.
Privacy, KYC, and Ecosystem Design
To support regulatory alignment and ensure real human participation, Pi Network has integrated a KYC process that collects user identity data. This step is common in many financial applications and helps ensure that the platform remains secure and resistant to bot activity or fraudulent mining.
The Pi team has stated that privacy is a priority, and user data is collected solely for verification purposes. As with any platform requiring KYC, users are encouraged to review policies and participate voluntarily.
In terms of monetization, the Pi app includes advertising to support network operations. This model helps keep access free for users and contributes to long-term sustainability. As the ecosystem matures, other revenue streams-such as DApp transactions and ecosystem services-may play a larger role.
Token Model and Economic Structure
Pi’s tokenomics are designed to reward early adopters while maintaining incentives for future users. Mining rewards decrease over time as the network grows, aligning with a philosophy of gradual scarcity.
Unlike Bitcoin, Pi does not have a hard cap on total supply. Instead, its issuance is tied to network participation and user behavior. While this allows flexibility, the Pi team has taken steps to manage inflation by introducing token-locking mechanisms. These allow users to voluntarily lock a portion of their holdings for set periods in exchange for higher mining rates, promoting long-term commitment to the network.
The mainnet migration process continues to roll out in 2025. Users who have completed KYC are able to transfer their mined Pi to the blockchain, where it can be used for transactions, applications, and eventually, exchange listings.
How Pi Network Compares to Bitcoin
While Pi and Bitcoin are both cryptocurrencies, their purposes, structures, and audiences are different.
| Feature | Bitcoin | Pi Network |
| Purpose | Digital gold, decentralized money | Accessible crypto, social mining |
| Launch Year | 2009 | 2019 |
| Supply Cap | 21 million | Dynamic (based on participation) |
| Consensus Mechanism | Proof of Work | Stellar Consensus Protocol |
| Mining Requirements | High-power hardware | Mobile phone, social trust |
Bitcoin was built for decentralization and financial autonomy through scarcity. Pi, on the other hand, focuses on widening access and integrating crypto into everyday digital life. While Bitcoin is considered a store of value, Pi is still in its early stages and aims to serve as a utility token for various services within its ecosystem.
Pi’s mobile-first approach sets it apart. It’s not trying to replace Bitcoin-it’s attempting to open new doors in how people interact with blockchain technology, particularly in regions where crypto adoption is still emerging.
Pi Network’s Roadmap for 2025 and Beyond
2025 marks a pivotal moment for Pi Network with the gradual rollout of its open mainnet, enabling users to transact outside the closed ecosystem for the first time. Exchange listing preparations are also underway, with active trading pairs like PI USDT expected to play a key role in providing liquidity and price discovery for early market participants. This phase includes:
- Wider KYC completion to increase the number of eligible mainnet users
- Exchange listing preparations to bring Pi onto crypto markets
- Expansion of DApps within the Pi Browser
- Further development of developer tools to attract app creators and service providers
The team’s long-term goal is to build a peer-to-peer ecosystem where users can use Pi to buy goods, pay for services, and interact with decentralized applications-all within a mobile-first interface.
By focusing on real-world utility and ease of use, Pi aims to build an ecosystem that goes beyond speculation and toward everyday adoption.
What the Community and Developers Are Saying
Pi’s success relies not only on infrastructure, but also on community engagement and developer support. Across social media and discussion forums, users share enthusiasm about Pi’s mission and accessibility.
Developers within the ecosystem are beginning to explore ways to build useful applications using Pi as a medium of exchange-from e-commerce platforms to gaming apps to learning tools. The Pi Hackathon and related events have encouraged innovation and experimentation, signaling a growing base of technical contributors.
As more users complete KYC and gain access to mainnet wallets, the ecosystem is expected to grow organically through demand-driven services.
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Conclusion: What’s Next for Pi Network?
So, will Pi become the next big crypto?
While it may not follow the same path as Bitcoin or Ethereum, Pi Network is carving out a space of its own. Its strengths lie in:
- Mobile accessibility
- Energy-efficient consensus
- Widespread user interest
- A growing ecosystem of apps and services
The open mainnet phase, now underway, will be crucial in determining how the network matures. If the project continues to focus on real-world utility, expands developer engagement, and sustains user trust, it could establish itself as a significant player in the next wave of crypto adoption.
Pi Network isn’t just about mining coins-it’s about reimagining who gets to participate in the digital economy.
As always, users and observers should stay informed, follow the project’s updates, and make decisions aligned with their own goals and risk profiles.