TLDR
- Pi Network completed multiple protocol upgrades, including versions 19.6, 19.9, 20.2, and 21.
- The migration to v20.2 introduced the foundation for smart contract capabilities on the network.
- The Core Team activated the first smart contract feature on the Testnet in early April.
- Pi Network launched PiRC-2 to open its subscription smart contract design for community review.
- The team scheduled a mandatory protocol 22 upgrade with an April 27 deadline.
Pi Network outlined recent protocol upgrades, new smart contract tests, and its upcoming role at Consensus 2026. The team confirmed multiple version migrations and opened its Testnet for community review. Meanwhile, co-founders Chengdiao Fan and Nicolas Kokkalis will speak in Miami during early May.
Pi Network Advances Protocol Upgrades and Smart Contract Testing
Pi Network advanced its roadmap through consecutive protocol upgrades during February and March. The team completed migrations to versions 19.6 and 19.9 before moving to v20.2 around March 14.
The migration to v20.2 established the base for smart contract capabilities on the network. Developers can now build decentralized applications and automate blockchain processes. The team described the milestone as a foundation for broader ecosystem tools.
🖥Node Operators: The mandatory Protocol 22 upgrade deadline is April 27. This critical update ensures network stability & paves the way for full smart contract functionality, supporting our 18M+ Pioneers.🚀#PiNetwork pic.twitter.com/AojkAfFfZU
— PiNetwork DEX⚡️阿龙 (@PiNetworkAL) April 23, 2026
In early April, the Core Team activated its first smart contract capability on the Testnet. The team stated that the feature would foster “real, recurring, utility-driven use cases.” The release allowed developers to test subscription-based smart contracts in a controlled environment.
Soon after, Pi Network introduced PiRC-2, its second Pi Request for Comment. The proposal opened the subscription smart contract design to technical review and community input. The announcement triggered mixed reactions across community channels.
Some members supported the review process and highlighted potential long-term benefits. Others urged the team to resolve KYC verification delays before launching further features. The discussion unfolded publicly as the Testnet review process continued.
The team also confirmed the release of version 21 following v20.2. It then scheduled a mandatory upgrade to protocol 22 with an April 27 deadline. A community member stated, “This critical update ensures network stability & paves the way for full smart contract functionality, supporting our 18M+ Pioneers.”
Pi Network Heads to Consensus 2026 as Founders Take the Stage
Pi Network will participate as a partner at Consensus 2026 in Miami. The conference will take place in early May and gather major blockchain projects. The event listing confirmed the project’s partnership role.
Co-founder Chengdiao Fan will speak on May 6 during a main stage session. She will address AI-era business models and utility-driven digital products. The agenda also includes discussion of Pi Network’s blockchain infrastructure.
Nicolas Kokkalis will appear on a panel on May 7. The session carries the title “How to Prove You’re Human in an AI World (Without Doxing Yourself).” Panelists will examine digital identity challenges as AI-generated profiles increase online.
Organizers stated that the panel will explore shifting internet trust models. Speakers will discuss verification methods that avoid exposing personal data. The event schedule lists both founders among featured participants.
The team continues preparations for the mandatory protocol 22 upgrade. The April 27 deadline remains in place ahead of the Miami conference. Pi Network maintains its focus on completing technical updates and presenting its roadmap at Consensus 2026.
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