Pi Network Integrates Stellar XRay Protocol 25 with Mainnet on Jan 22

TLDR

Table of Contents

Over 15.8M Mainnet users will vote on Pi Network’s future upgrade on January 22.
New Pi SDK enables developers to add Pi payments to apps in under 10 minutes.
Protocol v23 enhances Pi Network using Stellar Core’s transaction speed upgrades.
Stellar X-Ray Protocol 25 introduces privacy tools BN254 and Poseidon on Jan 22

Pi Network is bringing major updates to its blockchain ecosystem starting January 22. The team has announced the launch of a faster payment SDK, a protocol upgrade (v23), and a community governance vote involving more than 15.8 million Mainnet users. On the same day, Stellar, a protocol that shares foundational ideas with Pi, will release its new privacy-focused X-Ray Protocol 25. These updates mark an important step in Pi’s path toward real-world blockchain utility.

Payment SDK Launch Boosts Developer Access

Pi Network has released a new software development kit (SDK) in early 2026 to support faster and easier Pi payment integration. This tool allows developers to integrate Pi transactions into their applications in less than ten minutes. It also simplifies back-end processes by bundling the SDK with necessary backend APIs.

This rollout is part of Pi Network’s continued focus on real-world utility. By reducing setup time, the new SDK is expected to encourage more developers to build apps and services that use Pi as a payment method. This shift supports broader adoption and real usage beyond mining and token holding.

Protocol v23 Introduces Improved Speed and Integration

Pi Network has also implemented Protocol v23, which adopts core elements from the Stellar blockchain. This update is designed to improve transaction processing speed and system efficiency. By building on Stellar Core, Pi benefits from a system that supports quick and secure transaction settlement.

While Pi Network runs independently, it shares some of Stellar’s foundational ideas. Both platforms aim to enable scalable and privacy-conscious financial services. Protocol v23 helps align Pi’s infrastructure with that goal by adding robust capabilities similar to those found on Stellar.

Community Governance Vote Set for January 22

A key part of Pi Network’s roadmap is community-driven decision-making. On January 22, the platform will begin a major Mainnet governance vote. More than 15.8 million verified users will be eligible to participate. This vote will determine the next upgrade path for the Pi Network.

The governance process marks a shift toward more transparent development. Decisions will be based on input from the user base rather than central leadership. “Power to the Pioneers,” posted community member @fen_leng, emphasizing the importance of user input.

Stellar X-Ray Protocol 25 Launches Same Day

Stellar, a blockchain closely followed by Pi Network developers, will launch X-Ray Protocol 25 on the same date. This upgrade brings two advanced privacy tools: BN254, a cryptographic system used in zero-knowledge proofs, and Poseidon, a privacy-focused hash function. These tools offer developers new ways to protect user data while remaining compliant with blockchain rules.

Although Pi Network does not run on Stellar, both platforms have similar goals in secure, fast, and user-protective blockchain operations. The community has shown interest in Stellar’s upgrade because of its alignment with Pi’s technical direction.

2026 Focuses on Real Usage and Utility

The combination of the new SDK, Protocol v23, and community governance signals a year focused on real-world application. With tools now enabling fast integration and a large voting base empowered to shape future upgrades, Pi Network is moving toward a decentralized and usable ecosystem.

The focus is now on supporting developers, involving users in decisions, and aligning with modern privacy tools. This sets a foundation for expanding the platform’s use across apps, services, and other digital tools throughout 2026.