Just over 100 days since its launch, Pi Network’s Open Network phase has marked a significant turning point in the project’s journey toward creating a truly accessible, utility-focused cryptocurrency ecosystem.
The milestone follows six years of development, culminating in a network that now bridges external blockchain connectivity with real-world applications and commerce.
Unlocking Real Utility Through Open Network Connectivity
The launch of Open Network enabled full connectivity between Pi and the broader blockchain landscape, allowing businesses and developers to integrate with the network after passing Know Your Business (KYB) verification. This connectivity has catalyzed a wide range of use cases, from merchant adoption and gaming to digital domain ownership and advertising monetization.
$100 Million Venture Fund Targets Startup Innovation
In one of the most significant announcements, Pi Network Ventures was launched with a $100 million fund—held in both Pi and USD—to back startups focused on utility, accessibility, and real-world application of the Pi ecosystem. The fund aims to support projects in key sectors, with gaming identified as a strategic focus due to its inherent social engagement and virtual economy potential.
The launch of FruityPi, a Pi-integrated fruit-matching game, exemplifies this direction. It integrates core Pi tools such as the Pi Wallet, Pi Ad Network, and Pi payments—demonstrating how entertainment applications can anchor users to the broader ecosystem.
PiFest and Local Commerce Expansion
PiFest, which ran from March 14 to March 21, 2025, was the first commerce-focused event after Open Network went live. It showcased the power of real-time, Pi-based transactions with over 125,000 registered sellers, 58,000 active sellers, and 1.8 million Pioneers using the community-built Map of Pi app. Over 45,000 reviews were submitted, reinforcing the growing commercial interest in Pi as a medium of exchange.
.pi Domains Auction: Expanding Digital Identity on Pi
Pi also introduced .pi Domains, a platform-level utility for users and businesses to claim unique digital identities within the Pi ecosystem. More than 69,000 domains have seen active bids, with over 3 million Pi offered across 123,000+ bids. This marks a significant step in expanding digital ownership anchored in Pi’s blockchain.
Ecosystem Growth and Interface Enhancements
Several improvements were made to the Mainnet Ecosystem Interface, including:
- Direct app submissions via the Developer Portal
- Enhanced user interface design for easier navigation
- Expansion of the Pi Ad Network to include monetization for selected apps
- Continued onboarding of new Mainnet apps, signaling ongoing developer interest
Network Metrics Reflect Rapid Expansion
- 13 million+ users have now migrated to Mainnet
- 7.4 billion Pi migrated, with 5.2 billion locked
- 400,000+ active nodes across Mainnet and testnets
Enhanced Security, Accessibility, and KYC Progress
Security and accessibility saw major upgrades:
- 2FA introduced for Pi Wallet migrations
- Email-based verification adopted to replace SMS-based limitations
- New wallet activation pathways opened for KYC’d and tentatively KYC’d users
- A trusted email-based account recovery method is now live
- Updates were rolled out to fix KYC bottlenecks and support Yoti users
Conclusion
The first 100 days of Pi’s Open Network have established a robust foundation for real-world adoption. With millions of users, hundreds of thousands of apps and nodes, and new tools for developers and businesses, Pi Network is accelerating its mission to build a globally inclusive and utility-based crypto ecosystem. The next phase will focus on expanding use cases, reinforcing security, and growing network participation.
Source: https://coindoo.com/pi-network-surges-past-13m-mainnet-users-in-first-100-days/