Buy (Pi): A comprehensive guide to the network, the currency, value, and selling methods

Introduction to the Pi Network

Since its founding in 2019, the Pi Network has emerged as an advanced project in the world of cryptocurrencies, enabling millions around the globe to mine digital currencies directly from their mobile devices without the need for specialized equipment or deep technical knowledge. Many beginners seek reliable answers about what this project is, how it works, and its expected value. This guide highlights all aspects of the Pi Network, from its historical roots to its technical and economic features and future developments, providing learners with the essential foundation to understand an innovative cryptocurrency system focused on mobile technology.

Key Points:

• A mobile-oriented cryptocurrency platform allowing direct mining from smartphones
• Its founders hold PhDs from Stanford University (Dr. Nicholas Kokkalis and Dr. Chengdiao Fan)
• Based on the Stellar Consensus Protocol instead of traditional proof-of-work models
• The ecosystem includes four main user roles: pioneers, contributors, ambassadors, and node operators
• Maximum supply: 100 billion coins, with 80% allocated to the community and 20% to the founding team
• The coin is now tradable on major platforms after KYC verification and transition to the open mainnet

Origins and Background of Pi Network

Dr. Chengdiao Fan and Dr. Nicholas Kokkalis launched their project with a clear vision: to develop a user-friendly digital currency accessible to everyone, regardless of their technical expertise. The founders were driven by a strong desire to make blockchain technology available to ordinary people, away from the complexities associated with traditional cryptocurrencies. This core philosophy guided all subsequent steps in platform development, resulting in a unique mining approach based on smartphones and community-led growth.

###Founders’ Expertise

Dr. Nicholas Kokkalis - Chief Technology Officer
Holds a PhD in Electrical Engineering from Stanford, with subsequent research in computer science, specializing in distributed systems and human-computer interaction. His work focused on making technology accessible to the masses.

Dr. Chengdiao Fan - Head of Product
Holds a PhD in Anthropology, applying her deep understanding of human behavior and social computing to build a comprehensive ecosystem. Both founders are committed to expanding access to blockchain technology worldwide.

The Relationship Between the Coin and the Network

The Pi Network represents the infrastructure and comprehensive platform, while Pi Coin is the native digital currency supporting and powering this system. The network provides the application and community framework that enables users to mine and transfer Pi coins via their smartphones. Unlike other cryptocurrencies that require expensive equipment and advanced knowledge, anyone can participate as a “Pioneer”( through a simple mobile app using the Stellar Consensus Protocol instead of energy-intensive mechanisms.

Distinctive Features

) Mobile Mining
The platform allows for direct cryptocurrency mining without draining battery life or requiring specialized hardware. This ensures everyone can participate regardless of their financial capabilities.

Community Role System

The ecosystem is built around four main roles:

• Pioneers: Regular users verified daily through the app
• Contributors: Create security circles by selecting trusted members to enhance protection
• Ambassadors: Expand the network by inviting new members
• Node Operators: Advanced users running verification programs on computers

Stellar Consensus Protocol

The network uses this energy-efficient protocol instead of proof-of-work, offering:

• Very low energy consumption
• Higher scalability
• True decentralization with secure network validation

Security Circles

The platform applies a social trust layer where users verify each other, preventing fake accounts and building a trusted network without resource-intensive accounts.

No Initial Financial Barriers

Unlike most crypto projects, the platform does not require any initial investment, opening doors for those historically excluded from the digital currency revolution.

Main Advantages

Global Accessibility: Anyone with a smartphone can participate regardless of technical background or financial resources.

No Equipment Needed: Eliminates the need to purchase costly mining hardware like Bitcoin.

Environmental Efficiency: Consumes significantly less energy than traditional proof-of-work algorithms.

Financial Inclusion: Empowers regions with limited banking infrastructure to access a decentralized financial system.

User-Friendly Interface: The app is as simple as any other on smartphones, making it beginner-friendly.

Security via KYC: Identity verification prevents fake accounts and ensures one account per person.

Ecosystem Potential: Enables building innovative decentralized applications on the new infrastructure.

How It Works

The Pi Network relies on the Stellar Consensus Protocol instead of energy-intensive proof-of-work systems, resulting in a more accessible and eco-friendly cryptocurrency. Users form “trust circles” by nominating 3-5 trusted contacts, creating a connected network of verified members that generates a global trust graph, securing the network and verifying transactions without massive computational power.

Mining rewards various contributions: pioneers earn basic rewards for daily check-ins, additional rewards for expanding their trusted circles, and incentives for running full nodes.

Since December 2021, Pi has operated on a mainnet in a “closed” phase, requiring users to complete KYC verification to transfer their stored coins to the blockchain, with plans to transition later to an “open network” allowing full external connectivity.

How Pi Coin Works

It functions as the native cryptocurrency of the ecosystem, earned through mobile mining activities, and aims to facilitate a range of transactions within the platform. Users earn units through daily check-ins, expanding their trusted circles, and contributing to network security.

These coins are expected to ease peer-to-peer transactions and support a growing ecosystem of applications. Within the network, they can be used to purchase goods and services via specialized marketplaces, acting as a transfer medium between users and a payment method within community-developed apps.

Developers are encouraged to build applications accepting Pi as a payment method, from e-commerce platforms to various digital services, supported by the network’s regular hackathon programs.

Economics and Distribution

The project’s economics are designed to promote community ownership and sustainable development, according to the original whitepaper from March 2019. The total cap is set at 100 billion units, with an 80/20 distribution favoring the community over the core team.

###Unit Distribution

Community Share ###80 billion(:

• Mining rewards )65 billion(: the largest share for rewarding active users, with a gradual annual reduction
• Community and ecosystem development )10 billion(: funding events, grants, and initiatives
• Liquidity pool )5 billion(: ensuring smooth transactions and access for pioneers

Core Team Share )20 billion(: Compensation for ongoing development and maintenance efforts, with a gradual unlock aligned with community mining progress.

)Decreasing Reward Structure

The network applies a decreasing reward model to incentivize early participation and ensure long-term sustainability:

• Gradually decreasing annual limits
• Detailed timeframes based on reserved percentage factors
• Enhanced rewards for diverse contributions

Selling and Trading Methods

Following the transition to the open mainnet and the trading of units on major platforms, the selling process is now straightforward:

Step 1 - KYC Verification and Migration:
Complete identity verification successfully and transfer your coins from the closed network; only verified units can be moved to external platforms.

Step 2 - Choose a Platform:
Several leading platforms now support unit trading. Select based on security, fees, and available trading pairs.

Step 3 - Transfer to Platform Wallet:

• Open your wallet via Pi browser or app
• Select “Send” and copy the deposit address from the platform
• Enter the address and specify the amount
• Confirm the transaction

Step 4 - Place a Sell Order:
Once units arrive:

• Go to the trading section and select the appropriate trading pair
• Choose a market order ###immediate sale( or a limit order )at a specific price(
• Enter the amount to sell
• Confirm the order

Step 5 - Withdraw Funds:
After a successful sale:

• Keep funds for future trades
• Convert to other cryptocurrencies
• Withdraw to your bank account

Always secure your accounts with strong passwords and two-factor authentication, and verify transaction details before confirming.

Future Outlook and Vision

The network is preparing for a significant transitional phase from the current closed state to the open mainnet, a pivotal shift in the project’s development. This will enable external connectivity with other blockchains and platforms, allowing for trading and usage outside the ecosystem for the first time.

Growth strategies include expanding application systems supported through ongoing hackathons in markets, gaming, and financial services. According to the roadmap, the network aims to become a global payment system supporting daily goods and services, with plans to expand nodes, develop interoperability capabilities, and establish strategic partnerships.

With tens of millions of users already onboard and a focus on real utility rather than speculative trading, the network is positioning itself as a key player in mainstream adoption of blockchain technology.

Is the Project Legitimate or a Scam?

Amidst widespread scams in the crypto space, beginners understandably question the legitimacy of the project. Based on an objective analysis, several positive signs emerge:

Legitimacy Indicators:

• A verified founding team with academic credentials from Stanford
• Gradual development over multiple years rather than promises of quick riches
• No requirement for initial investment from users
• KYC compliance indicating regulatory adherence
• Successful transition to mainnet and listing on reputable platforms
• Active ongoing technical development

Addressing Common Criticisms:

• Extended timeline: complex blockchain projects require years to build secure infrastructure
• Uncertain value previously: now traded at transparent prices on regulated exchanges
• Mining mechanisms: use Stellar Protocol instead of traditional proof-of-work

Moving to the open network and being listed on well-known platforms significantly enhances credibility. As with any digital asset, due diligence is essential, but evidence points to a genuine blockchain project.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was the network launched?
The mobile app in 2019, with the closed mainnet launched in December 2021, followed by the transition to the open phase.

When was the coin officially launched?
With the move from testing to the mainnet in December 2021, and the recent open phase.

Current value?
As of January 2026, trading around $0.21 on major exchanges. Prices fluctuate based on market conditions.

Can it be sold?
Yes, on several platforms after completing KYC and transferring coins to the open mainnet.

Does it have real value?
Yes, it has a genuine market cap, active trading, daily volatility, and utility within the ecosystem.

When did it become tradable?
Now on multiple major platforms after meeting the requirements.

Predicted value in 2030?
Difficult to forecast precisely; opinions vary based on network growth, adoption, and broader market conditions.

Is the network legitimate?
Yes, a real project developed by Stanford alumni with verifiable expertise, multi-year development, and listing on reputable platforms.

Difference between the network and the coin?
The network is the comprehensive ecosystem, while the coin is the native unit supported by it, similar to Ethereum and Ether.

How does mining work?
Through the app using the Stellar Protocol instead of proof-of-work, with users verifying daily and building trust circles with trusted members.

Summary

The Pi Network offers a distinctive approach to cryptocurrencies, balancing accessibility, community growth, and real utility over speculative trading. By enabling mobile mining and building a community-centered system, it provides an entry point for millions who might otherwise be excluded from the digital currency revolution.

With the transition to the open mainnet and listing on major platforms, the units are beginning to realize their vision of becoming a widely accepted currency. Whether you’re interested in mining, trading, or learning about innovative blockchain projects, the project presents an intriguing case of reimagining cryptocurrency for mainstream adoption.