Often hailed as the “crypto for the people,” Pi Network, a decentralized project that allows mining via smartphones without hefty gas fees or specialized GPUs, has garnered a massive global following. Five years after its closed mainnet launch in December 2021, the burning question remains: Can you actually use Pi coin to buy anything tangible in 2025? As Pi Network officially launched its open mainnet in February 2025, the potential for real-world usability has intensified. Let’s delve into the current state of Pi coin’s real-world applications and address the core question on the minds of millions: Is Pi coin finally a functional digital currency, or is it still just a promising concept?
Pi Coin Hits Exchanges: Where Can You Buy and Sell?
The February 2025 launch of Pi Network’s open mainnet marked a significant turning point, enabling interaction with the broader cryptocurrency ecosystem. Consequently, Pi coin (PI) has begun listing on various cryptocurrency exchanges. As of April 2025, individuals can trade Pi on platforms such as OKX, Bitget, MEXC, and BitMart. While these listings provide avenues for buying and selling Pi, the absence of a listing on major exchange Binance, despite significant community support, highlights existing concerns around blockchain compatibility, transparency, and regulatory considerations. The availability on these exchanges, however, signifies a crucial step towards integrating Pi into the wider financial landscape.
Beyond the Hype: What Can You Actually Buy with Pi?
While the dream of purchasing high-value items with Pi might not yet be a widespread reality, a grassroots movement of Pi adoption is taking shape. Within the Pi community, documented transactions include the purchase of everyday items like t-shirts, mugs, phone accessories, and even local services such as graphic design. Small-scale transactions involving food, drinks, and handmade crafts are also occurring within localized Pi events and through informal marketplaces facilitated by social media groups and Pi’s own ecosystem apps like Pi Browser and Pi Chat.
It’s crucial to understand that these transactions largely operate on trust within the community, resembling a barter system enhanced by cryptocurrency. Unlike established payment networks, there isn’t a comprehensive list of major retailers accepting Pi. Instead, adoption is highly localized and community-driven. For instance, Pi users in Indonesia might be able to purchase meals, while those in Vietnam could use Pi for mobile data. This nascent stage of merchant adoption is gaining momentum, particularly with the rise of Know Your Customer (KYC)-verified Pi applications. These platforms, requiring identity verification for both users and businesses, aim to build a more secure and legitimate commercial environment, fostering greater confidence in accepting Pi as payment.
The Future of Pi Payments: Merchant Adoption and Beyond
The focus for Pi Network following its open mainnet launch has shifted towards scaling real-world integrations. Promising developments include local businesses in several countries already accepting Pi for goods and services, the emergence of Pi Chain Mall and similar marketplaces facilitating digital commerce within the Pi ecosystem, and the ongoing testing of third-party integrations with DeFi protocols, cross-chain bridges, and NFT platforms. Furthermore, the Pi Browser and Pi Apps are empowering developers to launch new payment-enabled services utilizing mainnet Pi.
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With a substantial base of KYC-verified users and a growing number of Pi applications, the infrastructure for a scalable Pi economy is being built. While it’s too early to definitively state whether Pi will become a mainstream payment method, the current trajectory suggests a gradual but potentially significant increase in its real-world usability. The success of integrating DeFi protocols, decentralized exchanges, and NFT marketplaces will also be crucial in unlocking broader use cases beyond the existing Pi community.
In conclusion, while Pi coin isn’t yet a ubiquitous payment solution, it is transitioning from a purely theoretical concept to a functional medium of exchange within its dedicated community. The open mainnet launch and increasing merchant adoption, albeit localized, signify tangible progress. Whether Pi Network evolves into a major player in the global payments landscape hinges on its ability to scale merchant onboarding, navigate regulatory landscapes, and foster robust liquidity. The real-world experiment of Pi Network is underway, and the global crypto community is keenly observing its next steps.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. The author’s views are personal and may not reflect the views of Chain Affairs. Before making any investment decisions, you should always conduct your own research. Chain Affairs is not responsible for any financial losses.
I’m your translator between the financial Old World and the new frontier of crypto. After a career demystifying economics and markets, I enjoy elucidating crypto – from investment risks to earth-shaking potential. Let’s explore!
