Pi Network has launched a community consultation for a new ecosystem token framework, marking a key development as its Open Network phase reaches its first anniversary. On February 23, 2026, the Pi Core Team published a Pi Request for Comment (PRC1), detailing a proposed "Pi Launchpad" model designed to prioritize product utility over capital fundraising.
The proposed token design represents a clear departure from typical crypto fundraising. It mandates that projects launching tokens on the Pi Network must already have a functioning application. In this system, users would stake their Pi coins to fund permanent liquidity pools on a future decentralized exchange. Crucially, funds used to acquire these ecosystem tokens would not go to project teams but would be locked in these liquidity pools to support long-term token stability.
The model also introduces incentive tiers. A "balanced" version could offer users a discount of around 9% based on their engagement level, while a more aggressive rewards model could offer discounts of up to 60%. The team states that transparent smart contracts will govern the entire process to mitigate risks and manipulation.
Parallel to the token framework, Pi's leadership has reaffirmed its long-term bet on identity infrastructure. The network plans to expand its Pi KYC solution into a service usable by external Web3 projects and traditional businesses. The founders, Nicolas Kokkalis and Chengdiao Fan, emphasized that verified human identity is crucial for real-world blockchain use cases and in a future dominated by AI. They believe Pi's hybrid AI-human validation model can fill this gap at scale.
These announcements come amidst a backdrop of mixed sentiment within the Pi community. While the network reports growth—with millions of Mainnet migrations and over 250 apps in development—some Pioneers express frustration over migration delays and the Pi coin's price, which trades around $0.16. The Pi Core Team is now actively inviting developers, businesses, and Pioneers to review the PRC1 proposal and submit detailed technical feedback via GitHub or general opinions through a Google Form.
