TLDR
- Pi Launchpad is live on Testnet with a test token and follows Design 1 in the PiRC proposal.
- Pi said the Testnet phase will collect data and feedback before the Mainnet Launchpad release.
- Major nodes reached version 20.2, and protocol 20 adds the base for smart contract support.
- Second migrations started, and KYC validator rewards were set at 0.0504179 Pi per validation.
Pi Network has released the first version of Pi Launchpad on Testnet with a test token. The move starts a public learning phase before the planned Mainnet rollout. It came as part of the Pi Day 2026 product update. Pi Day 2026 marks the network’s seventh official anniversary.
The company said the app follows Design 1 in the PiRC proposal published after the Open Network anniversary. It said Testnet gives Pioneers time to learn the process, while the team gathers data and feedback before Mainnet.
Testnet Launchpad focuses on utility and working apps
Pi said the Launchpad is available through Pi Browser, and it is built for product-first projects. Under this model, a project should already have a working app when its token launches. The network said tokens should support product use, including access, payments, rewards, and governance inside the app.
Pi said the launch method differs from many token sales in Web3. Proceeds raised in Pi are set to enter a liquidity pool with the new ecosystem token. The issuing project does not keep those Pi funds. Pi said this structure is meant to support early liquidity and reduce purely speculative token launches.
The company also linked the Launchpad to future DEX activity inside the ecosystem. It said healthy trading needs tokens with real utility and liquidity. Pi said the Testnet version may change quickly, and timeframes, steps, and calculations may not stay fixed during testing.
Pi said the goal is to help users “become familiar with how the process works.” The company said feedback from users and projects will shape the Mainnet version. It also said the overall design may still change after more testing and community comment.
Protocol 20 upgrade prepares the chain for smart contracts
Pi also reported progress on node and protocol upgrades. It said major nodes have moved to version 20.2 and now support protocol 20. According to the update, Mainnet and Testnet2 were upgraded in stages on February 15, March 1, and March 13, 2026. Pi said Testnet1 reached version 23 on September 18, 2025.
The network said protocol 20 provides the base needed for smart contract support. It described smart contracts as on-chain code that can power app logic and automated transactions. Pi said early categories will focus on utility, including subscriptions, escrow tools, NFT-related contracts, and other product uses.
Pi said release steps will include external audits, community review, Testnet checks, and later Mainnet deployment. It also said the Pi Wallet and the Pi SDK will need updates for broader app support.
Migrations rewards and app tools expand across the ecosystem
The company said second migrations have started, while first migrations will continue for eligible users. Pioneers must complete wallet two-factor authentication in the Mainnet Checklist before becoming fully eligible. Pi said referral mining bonuses tied to KYC-cleared team members will also be part of second migrations.
Pi also began the first round of KYC validator rewards. Pi said the pool held 16,568,774 Pi at the March 5, 2026 snapshot. The Pi Foundation added 10 million Pi. Based on 526,970,631 successful validations, the reward rate was set at 0.0504179 Pi per validation.
Beyond the Launchpad, Pi said App Studio now supports Mainnet apps and live Pi payments for select apps. It also enabled persistent payment features across sessions. The update added that Kraken has integrated support for Pi. Pi also announced a Pi Day utility challenge with a badge reward.
Validators need at least 50 tasks that reached majority agreement by March 5 to receive this round. Payments will go to Mainnet wallets automatically. Pi also said four App Studio apps have been invited to move to Mainnet. Those apps can use live Pi payments.
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