The core team of the Pi Network has introduced significant updates designed to assist Pi users, referred to as Pioneers, in experimenting, iterating, and developing apps that enhance the utility of the Pi token.

The Pi Network App Studio is set to launch a competition alongside a community-wide event aimed at boosting the real-world utility of Pi. These updates come as the Pi token struggles to maintain its value, recently dropping by a considerable amount, nearing its historical low recorded in October 2025.

Updates to Pi App Studio

The recent major updates for 2026 included the option for seamless Pi payment integration directly within the Pi App Studio. This feature enables app creators to implement Pi payments without needing to engage with coding or having advanced technical knowledge.

Currently limited to Test-Pi, this development is expected to pave the way for future monetization on the Mainnet. While integrating Pi payments does necessitate some developer skills and time investment, the latest updates aim to simplify this process, guiding users through straightforward, interactive steps during app creation.

Upon transitioning to the Mainnet, developers will be able to implement payment features applicable to a single active session, such as unlocking specific functionalities or buying in-app items. Further enhancements for persistent purchases across different sessions are in the pipeline.

Additionally, there will be a creator-focused event within the Pi App Studio, encouraging users to provide feedback and showcase valuable applications through a concise survey. The first 1,000 participants who qualify will earn 5 Pi tokens, which can be used exclusively within the App Studio for app creation and customization.

Declining Pi Price

In line with the broader trends in the cryptocurrency market, the value of the Pi Network’s native token has recently plummeted as the week began after a period of relative calm. Following the latest news regarding the US-EU trade conflict, the token hit a low of $0.177 (as reported by CoinGecko), barely above the all-time low of $0.172 reached in early October.

However, it experienced a slight recovery and is currently trading above the $0.18 mark, although it remains over 11% lower compared to last week.