Pi Network Rolls Out SDK As Mainnet Growth Sets Stage For Open Network 2026

TLDR

Table of Contents

New Pi SDK enables payment integration in under 10 minutes using common web frameworks.
More than 15.8 million users have migrated to the Pi Network mainnet so far.
Protocol v23 upgrade improves speed and expands on-chain KYC authority.
A mainnet governance vote linked to open network progress is set for January 22.

Pi Network has begun its countdown to a full open network launch planned for 2026. The shift follows the release of a new developer software kit and recent protocol upgrades. Community posts on January 13 signaled a transition toward broader access and external connectivity. The project is positioning itself around application use, payment integration, and network readiness, as it moves beyond its early mining-focused phase.

SDK Release Signals Focus on Application Payments

The Pi Core Team has released a new developer SDK designed to simplify Pi payment integration. The updated toolkit merges the Pi SDK with backend services into a single setup. Developers can now connect Pi payments to applications in under 10 minutes, using common frameworks.

Supported tools include JavaScript, React, and Next.js. The change reduces setup time and removes the need for complex configurations. Pi Network stated that the goal is to help developers focus on application features rather than infrastructure.

Pi Core Team just released the first major update of 2026:
🧩 New Developer SDK
⚡ Integrate Pi payments in under 10 minutes
🌍 Real utility is finally accelerating
This is infrastructure.
This is how mass adoption starts.#PiNetwork pic.twitter.com/mHpdQUl0D0
— Pi Global (@RealPi314) January 14, 2026

The SDK is aimed at increasing the number of payment-based applications on the network. These include marketplaces, games, and merchant tools. By lowering technical barriers, the network expects faster development cycles and broader participation from builders.

Network Growth After Open Network Phase Start

Pi Network entered its Open Network phase in February 2025. This allowed limited interaction with external systems for the first time. Since then, the project has expanded its ecosystem across users, applications, and infrastructure.

According to network data, more than 15.8 million users have migrated to the mainnet. Over 17 million users have completed identity verification. The ecosystem now supports more than 215 live applications built within Pi’s environment.

The Open Network phase has focused on controlled growth. External access remains limited, but developers can deploy real applications. Payments and app testing have continued under defined rules, while the network prepares for full openness.

Protocol v23 and Governance Milestones

In January 2026, Pi Network rolled out Protocol v23. The update improves transaction speed and strengthens on-chain identity controls. It also expands support for smart contracts, which are required for advanced applications.

The upgrade gives the network more control over KYC-related processes. This supports compliance-focused use cases and application security. Protocol v23 is part of a series of upgrades planned ahead of the open network launch.

A governance vote tied to mainnet progress is scheduled for January 22. The vote will address key parameters linked to network readiness. Governance outcomes are expected to influence the timing and scope of upcoming features.

Community Response and Next Network Steps

Community reaction has been mixed following the announcements. Long-term supporters have welcomed clearer timelines and developer tools. Some regional leaders described 2026 as a decisive year for adoption.

Other users remain cautious due to past delays. The Pi token price has remained near $0.20 in recent weeks. Several community members have said application usage will matter more than timelines.

Pi Network has stated that upcoming features may include a decentralized exchange, DeFi tools, and token creation. Broader payment access and cross-border use cases are also planned. The project’s next phase will depend on governance decisions, developer activity, and network stability ahead of 2026.