Pi App Studio Introduces Ad-Supported App Deployment For Pioneer

TLDR

Table of Contents

Pi App Studio offers ad-supported app deployment to lower entry barriers for users.
Pioneers can now deploy apps for free by watching ads, not spending Pi tokens.
New update helps creators add Pi payments in apps without coding.
Pi Network rewards survey participants with Pi credits to help build apps.

Pi Network has introduced an update to Pi App Studio, enabling users to deploy apps for free by watching ads. This new feature aims to support non-migrated Pioneers and those without a Pi balance, allowing them to continue testing and developing apps without financial barriers. The announcement was shared by the Pi Core Team on social media.

Ad-Supported App Deployment to Lower Entry Barriers

The recent update introduces a way for users to deploy app versions without spending Pi tokens. Instead, users can watch short ads as a substitute for Pi payments. This change primarily benefits new users and those who have not yet migrated to Mainnet, who previously had no way to pay for app deployment.

Pi Network acknowledged that while ads help cover part of the cost of app creation, the revenue is not enough to fully cover expenses such as server and AI costs. Nevertheless, the team is working to reduce the financial burden on creators and keep the platform active, especially during slow market periods.

#PiNetwork 📢Pioneers can now deploy their app iterations in Pi App Studio without having to pay Pi, by watching ads. This option enables more Pioneers—especially those who are not yet Mainnet-migrated and are unable to pay Pi—to experiment, learn, and create apps without being…
— PiNetwork DEX⚡️阿龙 (@fen_leng) January 29, 2026

“The goal is to make app creation accessible to everyone, even those without Pi balances,” said a Pi Network representative. The new feature is expected to encourage more Pioneers to experiment with app development without the need to migrate or hold Pi tokens.

Simplified Pi Payments for App Creators

In addition to ad-supported deployment, Pi App Studio has added a no-code option for integrating Pi payments within apps. This allows creators to enable Pi payments without needing any coding knowledge. To set up Pi payments, creators simply need to mention “Pi payment” within their app prompt.

Currently, Pi payments only work for single-session transactions, meaning purchases are not saved when users leave and return. However, this feature is designed to prepare app creators for full Mainnet integration in the future. Pi Network sees this as an important step toward providing real utility for the Pi token rather than just holding coins.

Reward System for Early Feedback

To encourage participation and feedback, Pi Network has launched a creator event that invites Pioneers to complete a short survey. The first 1,000 valid responses will earn 5 Pi credits, which can only be used within Pi App Studio. This initiative aims to gather input on the types of apps that users find useful, helping the Pi team refine the platform’s tools.

The survey results will provide valuable insights into what features and tools are most needed by creators. Pi Network hopes this will lead to more effective updates and improvements, strengthening the overall ecosystem.

Focusing on Utility and Ecosystem Growth

Pi Network’s latest updates emphasize growing the utility of the Pi token through practical applications. By offering free app deployment and simplifying payment integration, Pi Network is encouraging more creators to build within its ecosystem, regardless of the current market conditions.

The addition of ad-supported app deployment and no-code Pi payments signifies a strategic shift toward making the platform more accessible and functional. Pi Network is focused on encouraging adoption and supporting the network’s growth through real-world use cases.

Through these updates, Pi Network aims to create an active and engaged community of app creators and users, ultimately preparing the platform for a successful transition to Mainnet. As more users become builders, the network’s ecosystem could see increased utility and potential for long-term growth.