Pi Network Enters Final Phase with Mainnet Upgrade and KYC Progress

TLDR

• Pi Network has set a critical deadline for all Mainnet node operators to upgrade to version 19.6 by February 15, 2026.
• The upgrade aims to improve performance, security, and scalability for long-term network growth.
• More than 16 million users have successfully migrated to Pi Network’s Mainnet as of February 2026.
• Pi Network is testing palm-print authentication for enhanced KYC, account recovery, and two-factor authentication.
• The platform is expanding its ecosystem with Pi DeFi, PiDAO governance, and university innovation hubs in 2026.
• Pi Network filed its MiCA whitepaper in late 2025, working toward a potential listing on regulated European exchanges.

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Pi Network is entering a crucial technical phase in February 2026, focusing on infrastructure upgrades, ecosystem expansion, and regulatory positioning. As the Mainnet node deadline approaches, Pi Network looks to achieve enhanced stability, compliance, and real-world integration. This marks the beginning of a critical multi-phase update cycle, signaling a new era for the platform.

Pi Network Software Upgrade and Mainnet Transition

Pi Network has set a firm deadline for all Mainnet node operators to upgrade to version 19.6 by February 15, 2026. Failure to do so will result in disconnection from the network, underlining the importance of this update. The software upgrade represents the first phase of a comprehensive protocol rollout that will continue through the second quarter of 2026.

This update aims to improve performance, security, and long-term scalability. Pi Network has also released a new Linux-based node version, creating a standardized infrastructure for future developments. In addition to improving node operations, this move prepares the platform for increased third-party developer integration, expanding the ecosystem’s reach.

KYC Milestones and User Migration Progress

In early 2026, Pi Network cleared long-standing KYC bottlenecks, unblocking 2.5 million users previously stuck due to KYC issues. This technical patch paved the way for these users to complete their migration to Mainnet. As of February 2026, more than 16 million users have successfully made the transition to the Mainnet, a major milestone in the platform’s growth.

The network is also testing palm-print authentication, an advanced method for KYC verification, account recovery, and two-factor authentication. The rollout of validator reward distribution for KYC contributors is also in the final testing phase. The rewards are expected to be fully deployed by March 31, 2026, further advancing the platform’s regulatory and user engagement efforts.

Ecosystem Expansion and 2026 Roadmap

Pi Network is moving forward with its Open Mainnet Phase III, focusing on ecosystem growth and real-world use cases in 2026. Key initiatives include the expansion of the Supernode program, along with the launch of Pi DeFi and PiDAO governance programs. Pi Network is also establishing university innovation hubs to drive development in blockchain and decentralized finance.

On the regulatory front, Pi Network is preparing for a potential listing on regulated European exchanges. The network’s MiCA whitepaper, filed in late 2025, outlines its regulatory approach. This step is a significant part of Pi Network’s strategy to gain compliance and prepare for future market developments.

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