TLDR
- Pi Network has over 50 million users in 150+ countries, building a global Web3 hub.
- Pi coin enables fast cross-border payments and secure blockchain transactions.
- Developers get real-time analytics and low-cost tools for Web3 gaming.
- Pi Network prepares for the 2026 open network phase, connecting to global exchanges.
Pi Network is making a bold move in the blockchain gaming world. The platform announced its plan to create the “Steam of Web3,” a system that connects gaming, blockchain, and payments in one ecosystem. Backed by over 50 million users worldwide, Pi Network’s mission is to make Web3 gaming scalable, developer-friendly, and accessible through its native digital currency, Picoin.
From Mobile Mining to Global Web3 Ecosystem
Founded in 2019 by Stanford PhDs Dr. Nicolas Kokkalis and Dr. Chengdiao Fan, Pi Network started as a mobile-based crypto mining app. It allowed users to mine coins on their phones without consuming much power or battery life. Over the years, it has grown into a global ecosystem with users in more than 150 countries.
The network is preparing to enter its open network phase in 2026, which will connect it with external exchanges and other Web3 platforms. This stage is expected to unlock full trading functionality and expand the use of Picoin beyond its current ecosystem. Pi Network’s growth reflects its focus on accessibility and inclusion within the broader digital economy.
Building the “Steam of Web3”
Pi Network’s latest vision compares its upcoming platform to Steam, the popular gaming service by Valve that transformed digital gaming in Web2. With this model, Pi aims to give Web3 developers tools to create, publish, and monetize blockchain-based games while using Picoin as the core payment option.
A Pi Network spokesperson explained, “Our goal is to bring the simplicity of Web2 gaming experiences into Web3 while maintaining decentralization.” The ecosystem emphasizes low-cost global payments, real-time analytics for developers, and improved blockchain security to ensure safe and efficient transactions.
Key Features Driving Web3 Growth
Pi Network’s gaming ecosystem is built around several core features. Pi coin enables seamless cross-border payments, allowing players and developers to transact quickly at minimal cost. Developers can also access real-time analytics to understand player engagement and behavior, similar to Google Analytics but customized for blockchain applications.
Security remains a core component of the network’s design. Transactions are protected with blockchain-based identity verification and encryption to reduce fraud and hacking risks. The platform’s mobile-first architecture is capable of supporting millions of users simultaneously, making it scalable for global adoption.
Expanding Through Community and Regulation
The Pi community, known as “Pioneers,” plays a major role in driving the platform’s adoption. These users validate transactions, test applications, and promote local awareness through chapters such as Pi Network Saigon. Their participation has helped maintain user trust and sustained growth across multiple regions.
Pi’s economic model ties the value of Pi coin to real-world utility, particularly in gaming and digital marketplaces. Internal data projects that 10 billion coins could be in circulation by 2026. However, Pi Network must still address global regulatory standards like the EU’s MiCA and the U.S. SEC rules.
Despite facing competition from networks like Immutable X, Gala Games, and Axie Infinity, Pi’s accessibility and mobile infrastructure provide it a strong competitive advantage. As it continues to expand, Pi Network’s strategy aims to redefine Web3 gaming by merging blockchain innovation with mass-market usability.
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