Pi Network Mainnet Migration Accelerates Amid Token Unlock Pressure
Pi Network's core team granted mainnet migration access to approximately 2.5 million previously restricted users on January 31, 2026, marking a significant expansion of the network's verified user base. This brings the total eligible users to around 16 million, representing one of the largest verified onboarding efforts for a consumer blockchain.
Price Action and Market Challenges
PI token rose to $0.147, up 15% from its lowest level this week, though it remains over 93% below its all-time high reached in February 2025. The recent rebound follows broader cryptocurrency market recovery, but analysts project further downside to $0.13–$0.14 amid the year's largest token unlock.
Supply Pressure Intensifies
Over 137 million PI tokens are set to unlock in February 2026, adding to existing supply pressure. On-chain data shows nearly 2 million tokens recently moved to exchanges like OKX and Bitget, typically a precursor to selling. The largest PI whale has paused purchases after regularly accumulating millions worth of tokens.
Exchange Listing Development
Kraken added Pi Network to its 2026 asset listing roadmap, marking the first formal signal from a major U.S. exchange that Pi could be under consideration for broader market access. However, the exchange has not committed to a timeline or guaranteed spot trading support. Pi Coin currently trades on platforms like OKX and Bitget, but top-tier exchanges such as Binance and Coinbase have yet to list it.
Protocol Upgrades and Technical Progress
Pi Network's mainnet protocol is undergoing a structured upgrade from version 19 to version 23, signaling one of the most significant infrastructure improvements since the network transitioned into its enclosed mainnet phase. The upgrade process officially begins with a full upgrade to version 19.6 scheduled for February 12, 2026, with subsequent upgrades including version 19.9 expected by February 27, 2026, followed by version 20.2 targeted for March 12, 2026.
Validator Rewards and Developer Tools
The Pi Network team is working to execute validator rewards distribution in March 2026, with design and implementation completed and testing underway. Pi Network launched its first 2026 update, introducing a new developer library that allows developers to add Pi payment functionality into their apps in less than ten minutes.
Open Mainnet 2026 Outlook
Recent developments suggest that key components required for a sustainable open network are actively being strengthened, with migration processes accelerating, utility expanding, and millions of Pioneers preparing for broader participation in the ecosystem.