Pi Network: Smart Contracts, Dumb Prices – What’s Next?

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Oh, Pi Network, you’re like that friend who’s always “almost there” but never quite makes it to the party. The team just announced they’ve finally moved to Protocol 21, which is basically their way of saying, “We’re one step closer to smart contracts, but don’t hold your breath.” Congrats, guys! Only 20 more versions to go before we’re impressed.

They also dropped some “key clarifications” (aka, they realized no one understood what they were doing) and a new Testnet feature. Meanwhile, the PI token is sitting in the corner, sulking, because it missed the memo on today’s market rally. Way to go, PI. Even my houseplant is growing faster than you.

The Latest (Because We’re Bored)

Last time we checked in, Pi Network was on version 19.6, then 19.9, then 20.2-basically, they’re upgrading faster than I change my Netflix password. Version 20.2 was supposed to be the Beyoncé of updates, laying the groundwork for smart contracts. Spoiler alert: it was more like a local cover band.

Version 21 was due by April 6, but the team missed the deadline. Shocking, I know. They finally confirmed it a few days later, probably after a team-building retreat where they learned how to meet deadlines. Node operators, don’t forget to update your systems! And get ready for v22, because this never ends.

The Pi Mainnet has successfully upgraded to Protocol 21.

Node operators, please ensure your systems are up to date and stay tuned for instructions regarding the upcoming v22 upgrade.

– Pi Network (@PiCoreTeam) April 14, 2026

In other news, they introduced an RPC server for the Pi Testnet, which is like giving a toddler a toy kitchen-it looks impressive, but let’s see if they actually cook anything. Apparently, it helps devs build “responsive applications” and test smart contracts. Cool. Can it also make me coffee?

Third-party services can run their own RPC servers too, because why not? It’s like a blockchain potluck, and everyone’s bringing their own dish. Let’s hope no one shows up with a store-bought salad.

PI Token: The Sad Trombone of Crypto

Remember when PI had its big moment in March? It shot up nearly 100% ahead of its Kraken listing, and we were all like, “Wow, maybe this isn’t a scam after all!” Then trading started, and it face-planted harder than I did at my high school reunion. From $0.30 to under $0.20 in 48 hours? That’s not a dip-that’s a nosedive.

And it just kept going. Thanks to the war in Iran (because nothing says “crypto” like geopolitical turmoil), PI dipped below $0.18. Now it’s struggling to stay above $0.165, while the rest of the market is partying like it’s 2021. Bitcoin’s up 5%, Ethereum’s up 9%, and PI’s like, “Can I get a participation trophy?”

Oh, and guess what? Massive token unlocks are coming, which is basically code for “brace for impact.” PI holders, it’s time to stock up on wine and therapy sessions. This is going to be a wild ride-or, more likely, a slow, painful crawl into obscurity.

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2026-04-14 13:58