Key Highlights
- Pi Network introduced a functioning RPC server on Testnet to enable smart contract development and testing environments.
- Protocol version 20.2 went live with version 21 scheduled for deployment in the near future.
- The RPC interface enables direct connectivity between blockchain nodes and decentralized applications or digital wallets.
- Testing capabilities now extend to NFT infrastructure, escrow mechanisms, and subscription models.
- PI token maintains position under $0.18 following rejection from $0.30 levels in March.
Pi Network has taken another step forward in its blockchain development timeline by implementing a new infrastructure component for smart contract experimentation. The development team has confirmed the activation of an RPC server within the Testnet environment. At the same time, the PI token continues consolidating below $0.18 with minimal daily price fluctuation.
Testnet Infrastructure Receives RPC Server Deployment
The Pi Network team rolled out protocol version 20.2 following previous implementations of versions 19.6 and 19.9 during the first quarter. According to official communications, version 21 remains on the development timeline and will be introduced shortly. This series of upgrades positions the infrastructure to accommodate smart contract capabilities while expanding developer participation.
Pi Testnet now has an RPC server.
This is a major step toward Smart Contracts being simulated, tested, and deployed. pic.twitter.com/xIjAHSgn0n
— Pi Network (@PiCoreTeam) April 1, 2026
The development team confirmed that a Remote Procedure Call server is now operational within the Testnet infrastructure. Officials characterized this implementation as a “major step toward Smart Contracts being simulated, tested, and deployed.” RPC architecture provides the technical framework for decentralized applications and cryptocurrency wallets to establish direct communication channels with blockchain infrastructure.
The new interface grants developers the ability to retrieve account balances and review transaction histories. Additionally, they can broadcast transactions for immediate processing by network nodes. This functionality creates opportunities for testing various applications including NFT platforms, escrow solutions, and recurring payment systems.
This announcement arrived shortly after the network’s Pi Day celebrations on March 14, where the team presented protocol modifications and updates on the second phase of Mainnet migrations. Community conversations regarding migration timelines and network preparedness remain ongoing.
The infrastructure enhancement establishes critical groundwork for decentralized application ecosystems. It simultaneously enables automated blockchain operations through executable smart contract code. Consequently, developers can now experiment with complex contract architectures within the protected Testnet environment.
PI Token Market Performance and Token Release Timeline
The PI token faces continued downward pressure after encountering resistance at the $0.30 threshold during mid-March. That price movement coincided with a Kraken exchange listing that generated temporary market volatility. Subsequently, the asset has encountered difficulty rebuilding bullish momentum.
During the most recent 24-hour trading window, PI recorded appreciation of less than 1%. Current pricing places the token beneath the $0.18 level. Comparatively, numerous mid-capitalization alternative cryptocurrencies demonstrated more substantial percentage increases throughout the identical timeframe.
Scheduled token release data indicates that approximately 10 million PI tokens will become available on multiple dates. These distributions could potentially amplify near-term selling pressure within the marketplace. Nevertheless, the calendar for the remainder of April reveals diminished daily unlock volumes.
Later in the month, specific dates will see token releases falling below the 5 million threshold. This modification tempers the velocity of circulating supply expansion. Market observers maintain vigilant tracking of these distribution metrics.
The Core Team has refrained from issuing price-focused commentary. Development priorities remain concentrated on infrastructure enhancements and technical achievements. The RPC server deployment represents the most recent confirmed advancement in the smart contract implementation roadmap.
