Pi Network has launched a significant update to its Pi App Studio, allowing Pioneers to deploy app iterations by watching advertisements instead of spending Pi tokens. The Pi Core Team announced the feature on X, stating its primary goal is to lower the entry barrier for app creation, especially for users who have not yet migrated to Mainnet or have a zero Pi balance. This enables a broader range of users to experiment, learn, and build applications without financial constraints during periods of market pressure.
The new ad-supported deployment option lets users watch short ads to cover the cost of deploying app versions, a cost previously payable only in Pi. Pi clarified that the ad revenue does not fully cover the real server and AI costs of app creation, and the team is subsidizing part of the expense. To prevent spam and abuse, the feature may be adjusted in the future if it proves too costly to operate.
Concurrently, Pi App Studio has integrated a simplified method for incorporating Pi payments into apps. Creators can now add Test-Pi payment functionality with no coding required, simply by mentioning "Pi payment" in their app prompt. While these test payments are currently session-based and do not persist, they are designed to prepare builders for future full Mainnet payments and drive real utility for the Pi ecosystem.
Alongside the technical update, Pi Network launched a creator event featuring a user survey. The first 1,000 valid respondents will receive 5 Pi credits usable exclusively within Pi App Studio, aimed at further reducing testing costs and incentivizing participation. The team intends to use the feedback to shape future platform development.
This series of updates underscores Pi Network's strategic focus on building utility and fostering an active developer ecosystem, prioritizing long-term adoption and app creation over short-term price speculation.
