- Pi Network launched Testnet 25 with Rust smart contracts ahead of the January 22 mainnet vote.
- The upgrade readies the network for apps and smart contracts while activity remains internal.
- A new in-app news feed supports verified updates and ongoing ecosystem growth.
Pi Network has officially launched Testnet 25 today, January 7, as part of its ongoing technical upgrades leading to a major Mainnet vote scheduled for January 22, 2026. The new testnet integrates Rust-based smart contracts. Marking a crucial step toward expanding on-chain functionality and developer tools within the Pi ecosystem. Testnet 25 builds on previous updates, including Protocol 23, and sets the groundwork for future applications, security tools, and on-chain activities.
Testnet upgrades like this allow developers and the community to trial new features in a controlled environment before they are fully deployed on the main network. Currently, Pi’s mainnet remains partially closed, limiting external transfers and full node access. Most activity continues internally, focusing on stability, safety, and real-world use cases rather than rapid expansion.
Community Prepares for Mainnet Vote
The upcoming mainnet upgrade vote will be on January 22. It is expected to engage Pioneers in deciding whether these changes should be implemented across the full network. This vote comes during Pi’s Open Network phase, launched in early 2025, as the team emphasizes measured growth and system readiness. With Testnet 25 live, the network enters a critical period of preparation and testing.
Official News Feed Enhances Verified Updates
Alongside the technical update, Pi Network has launched an official in-app news feed. This feed consolidates verified updates from recognized third-party outlets, helping users stay informed and reducing the spread of rumors.
🚨#PiNetwork has officially launched a news feed featuring news from officially recognized third-party news outlets, which indirectly confirms Pi Network's development plans for 2025.🗞 pic.twitter.com/P72mebPTMm
— PiNetwork DEX⚡️阿龙 (@fen_leng) January 6, 2026
Over the past year, Pi’s growing public presence has been documented in mainstream and crypto media, highlighting its open network launch, developer programs, and ecosystem growth.
Security, Migration, and Network Growth
Security continues to be a top priority for PI Network. The Core Team has reminded users that its official X account is the only verified source for updates. Directing users to the Pi Safety Center to avoid scams or fake links. Community data shows steady growth: approximately 15.8 million Pioneers have migrated to the mainnet, 17.5 million have completed KYC verification, and more than 215 apps are live, many originating from previous hackathons.
With Testnet 25 now active and a major mainnet vote approaching, Pi Network is entering a busy phase focused on preparation, security, and a careful rollout of new features. The network appears committed to measured progress, ensuring its infrastructure and community are ready for the next stage of expansion.
ALSO READ:Pi Network Surpasses 15.8M Mainnet Users as Ecosystem Expands in 2026
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