Pi Network marks one year since Open Network launch

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Pi Network expands Open Network

Highlights

Pi Network marked one year since launching Open Network in February 2025.
The project introduced a new ecosystem token model tied to product utility.
Pi plans to expand its KYC solution as a service for external platforms.

Launched on February 20, 2025, Open Network signaled Pi’s transition from a closed development phase into broader external connectivity. The team said the prior six years were focused on ecosystem preparation, including application development and identity verification for millions of users.

From closed ecosystem to utility focus

Before Open Network, Pi Network emphasized building infrastructure and verifying users through its in-house KYC system. The project was designed to allow individuals to mine tokens without financial or technical barriers, an approach aimed at wide distribution and accessibility.

Since the launch, the network reports growth across app development, Mainnet migration and ecosystem tools. Initiatives introduced during the first year include Pi App Studio, Pi Network Ventures and decentralized exchange (DEX) and automated market maker (AMM) features. Founders Nicolas Kokkalis and Chengdiao Fan addressed the anniversary in a video discussion, outlining ongoing priorities around utility, identity verification and product expansion.

Pi maintains that its long-term strategy centers on building an “inclusive, utility-driven, and widely adopted cryptocurrency.” The project has positioned itself differently from many blockchain networks by focusing on verified identity and consumer-facing applications rather than speculative token issuance.

Ecosystem tokens and identity expansion

A central theme of the anniversary update is the introduction of a new ecosystem token model on Mainnet. Unlike traditional token launches often associated with capital raising, Pi proposes a structure in which proceeds are deposited into a liquidity pool rather than transferred directly to project teams. Projects must also have a working application before issuing tokens under this framework.

The network released the proposal as a “Pi Request for Comment (PRC)” on GitHub, inviting community feedback. The approach seeks to address what Pi describes as a broader Web3 challenge: the disconnect between token issuance and product utility.

Pi Network also outlined plans to expand its KYC system beyond internal use. The company intends to offer its identity verification technology as a service to external Web3 and traditional businesses, emphasizing a hybrid AI and human validation model. The expansion reflects growing industry focus on digital identity solutions as regulatory scrutiny and real-world asset tokenization efforts increase.

Looking ahead

As the network enters its second year of Open Network operations, Pi says it will prioritize developer tools, faster KYC processes and improved user experience while continuing to expand app-level utility.

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