TLDR
- Pi Mainnet now runs Protocol 20 after major nodes upgraded to version 20.2.
- Pi said smart contracts will launch in stages, starting with utility-focused categories.
- Subscription, escrow, and NFT-related contracts are among the early priorities.
- Pi also announced second migrations, validator rewards, and Mainnet App Studio payments.
Pi Network has moved its Mainnet blockchain to Protocol 20, opening the next stage of its smart contract plan. The upgrade follows version 20.2 support across major Pi nodes and brings the chain to the new protocol level. Pi presented the move as a core technical step in its Pi Day 2026 release.
The network said smart contracts will not appear all at once. Instead, releases will arrive in stages and will focus on product utility and network operations. Pi also paired the protocol news with launchpad testing, migration updates, validator rewards, and Mainnet app payments.
Protocol 20 sets the technical base
Pi said Protocol 20 gives the blockchain the base needed for smart contract capabilities. These contracts can run set actions on-chain and support payments, app logic, and digital asset management.
In its announcement, Pi said, “Protocol 20 provides the foundation to enable smart contract capabilities.” The network added that rollout decisions will depend on needs created by utility building.
The upgrade follows a phased process across Pi blockchains. Testnet1 reached v23 on September 18, 2025, after earlier testing of the upgrade path. Mainnet and Testnet2 then moved through v19.6 on February 15, 2026, v19.9 on March 1, and v20.2 on March 13.
Major nodes were upgraded to version 20.2 before Mainnet completed the protocol change. Pi said that step was needed so the network could support the new rules consistently. It also said smart contract categories will be introduced gradually, not opened in full at once.
Utility use guides early contract plans
Pi said early smart contracts will favor real product use over trading-centered features. Subscription functions are expected to move early because many apps need recurring payments and access control.
Pi said this order reflects its goal of supporting utility-based business models. The network has often tied Mainnet growth to real services rather than short-term token activity.
Pi also listed escrow-type contracts, NFT-related contracts, and other utility tools as early categories. Some of these contracts are under external audit, according to the announcement.
After audit, Pi plans community review, then Testnet testing, and then Mainnet release. Pi said wallet and SDK changes are also planned to support smoother smart contract use.
Pi connects the upgrade with wider ecosystem releases
Alongside the protocol upgrade, Pi released the first Pi Launchpad version on Testnet. The app follows one design shared in a recent Pi Request for Comment. Pi said the Testnet phase will help users learn the launch process and give feedback before Mainnet.
The launchpad is designed for product-first projects that already have working apps and immediate token utility.
Pi also started second migrations and said referral bonus balances will be included for teams with members who passed KYC. The network began its first validator reward distribution and set the first round at 0.0504179 Pi per validation.
It said four Pi App Studio apps have been invited to move to Mainnet and accept live Pi payments. Pi also said Kraken has integrated support for Pi through its third-party connectivity process.
As part of Pi Day 2026, the network also launched a utility challenge inside the ecosystem. Users who complete the checklist will receive a Pi Day badge on Pi Chats and social profiles. Pi said its Open Network anniversary raffle will end on March 14 at 11:59 PM PST.
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