What Is the Pi Network? A Beginner’s Guide to Mobile Mining
As cryptocurrency adoption expands, new projects are emerging that aim to make digital assets more accessible to everyday users. One of the most talked-about is the Pi Network, a project that allows users to “mine” crypto directly from their mobile phones. But what is Pi Network, and how does it actually work?
What Is the Pi Network?
The Pi Network is a cryptocurrency project launched in 2019 by a group of Stanford graduates. Its goal is to enable anyone with a smartphone to earn Pi—the network’s native cryptocurrency—without the need for expensive mining equipment or high energy consumption.
Unlike Bitcoin or Ethereum, which rely on energy-intensive proof-of-work mining, Pi uses a trust-based system built on the Stellar Consensus Protocol (SCP). This allows for lightweight participation through mobile apps, making crypto mining more accessible to the public.
How Does Mobile Mining Work?
With the Pi Network:
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Users download the Pi Network app and register with a referral code.
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Once set up, they “mine” Pi by checking into the app every 24 hours and tapping a button.
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The app simulates mining through user validation, not by consuming heavy device resources.
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Mining rate increases as you build your trusted network or invite others.
This system prioritizes network growth and trust rather than computational power.
Pi Network Phases
The project is being rolled out in three main phases:
- Phase 1 — User Onboarding: App launched, users start mining.
- Phase 2 — Testnet: Blockchain development and internal testing.
- Phase 3 — Mainnet (current phase): Migration to a live blockchain with the potential for open trading.
As of now, many users have migrated their mined Pi to the mainnet and are beginning to explore how to use or exchange it.
Why Does Pi Have Value?
While Pi is still a developing asset, it shares characteristics that could make it valuable over time:
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Scarcity: Fixed total supply.
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Accessibility: Anyone can participate.
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Portability: Easily transferred across borders.
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Community-driven: Built around social consensus.
The growing user base and the potential for marketplace integration contribute to its perceived value.
How to Sell Pi
As Pi Network transitions into its open mainnet phase, users now have the ability to sell their Pi in supported environments.
If you’ve mined and migrated your Pi to the mainnet wallet, you may be able to sell your Pi in the following ways:
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Peer-to-peer (P2P) marketplaces: Some users trade Pi directly for goods, services, or other currencies.
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Through integrated platforms: Depending on the project’s roadmap and regional availability, some local platforms may begin supporting Pi trading.
Selling Pi with Coinstash
Coinstash offers a secure and easy-to-use platform for managing your crypto, including the ability to sell Pi. If you’re ready to sell your Pi, check out the Coinstash PI Sell Guide for a step-by-step walkthrough on how to complete your transaction safely and efficiently.
Keep in mind:
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Your Pi must be migrated to your mainnet wallet.
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KYC verification is typically required to enable selling.
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Always verify you’re using official or reputable platforms to avoid scams.
Final Thoughts
The Pi Network offers a unique approach to crypto adoption—low barrier to entry, mobile-friendly mining, and a strong focus on community trust. While its long-term success depends on further development, marketplace adoption, and broader utility, Pi has opened the door for millions of newcomers to engage with crypto.
Now that the network is moving into its open mainnet phase, users have more opportunities to explore the real-world value of their Pi. Whether you’re holding, trading, or just learning, platforms like Coinstash can help you manage your crypto journey with confidence.