Stellar Pushes Forward with Protocol 23: Is Pi Network Ready to Respond?

The blockchain industry is buzzing over Stellar's move to test Protocol 23—a major update that brings smart contract support and greater scalability. As Stellar resets its testnet and eyes a mainnet vote in September 2025, attention turns to Pi Network, a project built upon Stellar Core. Now, questions arise: is Pi prepared to upgrade and evolve?

Crypto voices, including @fen_leng, are urging the Pi Core Team to advance Pi Node from version 19.6.0 to 20.2.0. This shift would unlock smart contract support and position Pi Network at the forefront of the Web3 movement.

What Protocol 23 Means for the Ecosystem

Protocol 23 is a transformative update featuring:

• Native smart contract integration via Soroban

• Parallel transaction execution for higher throughput

• Expanded scalability and enhanced developer tools

• Breaking changes to RPC, Horizon, and SDK compatibility

This upgrade puts Stellar in a stronger position to host decentralized applications (dApps), setting a high technical bar for platforms using its core—including Pi Network.

Pi Network's Architecture and the Need for Evolution

Since Pi Network builds on Stellar Core, major changes in the underlying protocol carry deep implications. While Pi has prioritized community building, lacking smart contract functionality limits its reach within the Web3 space.

Upgrading to v20.2.0 could unlock:

• Smart contract deployment and execution

• Integration with AI App Studio and dApp ecosystems

• Enhanced decentralization and data processing

• Support for Pi-based domain services and digital identity platforms

Failing to evolve may cause Pi to trail behind rapidly advancing competitors.

Community Demand and Developer Aspirations

With more than 60 million users worldwide, Pi Network’s community—known as Pioneers—has long awaited expanded features and real utility. Developers have shown strong interest, but the absence of programmable logic is a persistent obstacle.

Stellar's upgrade offers a chance for Pi Network to lead. By updating its node framework, Pi can widen its developer base and introduce innovative use cases.

Strategic Impact on PiCoin and Web3 Adoption

Smart contracts are vital to Web3. They enable autonomous financial systems, NFT platforms, governance tools, and much more. For PiCoin to gain relevance and functionality, smart contract support is essential.

The upgrade would bring:

• Increased utility and demand for PiCoin

• Smooth merchant integration and automated payment systems

• A solid foundation for Web3 app development

• Greater confidence among investors and contributors

On the flip side, remaining on outdated infrastructure could limit Pi’s expansion and stall its momentum.

Technical Challenges and Transition Factors

Despite its benefits, the shift to v20.2.0 requires caution:

• Ensuring compatibility with Pi’s current apps and infrastructure

• Migrating user data and wallet systems safely

• Navigating legal and compliance requirements across regions

• Updating SDKs and retraining developers to use new tools

Stellar’s own Protocol 23 migration includes breaking API changes, replacing transaction metadata formats, and overhauling node processes. Pi Network must prepare for similar complexity.

🚨Stellar is going to test Protocol 23🐎
Meanwhile, @PiCoreTeam — When will you upgrade❓
🖥️ Pi Node: v19.6.0 → v20.2.0 Smart Contracts 💥
See you on Sep., 2025
WE NEED "support smart contracts" 🧵#PiNetwork🎊 pic.twitter.com/wbpqcKtlga

— PiNetwork⚡️阿龙 (@fen_leng) August 6, 2025

Timelines and What to Watch

Stellar’s mainnet vote for Protocol 23 is slated for September 3, 2025. To track Pi Network’s potential response, key signs include:

• Official announcements on Pi Node upgrades

• Updated SDK documentation and developer releases

• Beta testing and community engagement

• Smart contract tool integration within Pi Browser

The window to act is narrow—and the industry is watching closely.

Final Thoughts: Will Pi Network Take the Leap?

Stellar’s Protocol 23 sets a bold new precedent. As smart contracts become central to blockchain functionality, platforms must evolve or risk fading into irrelevance. Pi Network, with its vast user base and active community, is poised for leadership—but only if it adopts the technologies shaping tomorrow’s digital economy.

Upgrading Pi Node to v20.2.0 is more than a technical necessity—it’s a call to innovate, build utility, and claim relevance. Whether Pi Network will answer remains an open question. But momentum is growing, and the next chapter could define its future.

Writer @Erlin

Erlin is an experienced crypto writer who loves to explore the intersection of blockchain technology and financial markets. She regularly provides insights into the latest trends and innovations in the digital currency space.

 

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