TLDR
- Pi Network launched Ecosystem Directory Staking and Pi App Studio during Pi2Day 2025.
- The staking model allows users to lock Pi to promote selected apps in the ecosystem.
- Users do not earn any rewards from staking and only receive their original Pi back after the staking period ends.
- Many users were confused and disappointed due to the absence of financial incentives.
- The Pi Network Core Team clarified later that staking is meant to support the ecosystem, not for earning rewards.
Pi Network introduced two updates during Pi2Day 2025 that immediately sparked different reactions across the user base. While developers embraced the new Pi App Studio, the Ecosystem Directory Staking drew confusion and concern. Many users were unclear about the feature’s structure and its lack of financial incentives.
The Ecosystem Directory Staking allows users to stake Pi Coin to support selected applications within the Pi Network’s ecosystem. Unlike conventional cryptocurrency staking models, this staking does not yield Pi rewards. Users must pay a transaction fee, and they only recover the original staked amount after the period ends.
The new mechanism aims to promote app visibility and community participation but offers no direct economic benefit for participants. The approach contrasts with traditional staking systems that reward users for securing networks. This change in expected outcomes has left many Pioneers questioning its purpose.
Pi Network Staking Leaves Users Confused
Pi Network’s staking model does not generate returns, which has created widespread confusion among its global user base. Many expected to profit from staking, similar to traditional blockchain protocols. The misunderstanding grew due to the initial lack of detailed explanation from the Core Team.
🚨 Pioneers! There is another misunderstanding about this new staking feature. You WILL NOT get Pi rewards for staking for ranking apps!
⚠️ Please read carefully as always! When staking ends, you get your $Pi back minus transaction fee.
🔁 Share this information with other… pic.twitter.com/JrXZY6AEul
— b1rdx (@b1rdx0) June 29, 2025
Although a blog update clarified the process, users said the clarification came too late. The information failed to reach the community effectively when the feature launched, contributing to misaligned expectations.
Moreover, the Pi Network Core Team explained that staking aims to support quality apps and not to deliver financial gain. Developers can offer their app-based incentives, but these are not guaranteed. This model leaves control with developers rather than the protocol itself.
Community Sees Possible Ecosystem Benefits
Despite the confusion, some Pioneers noted potential long-term benefits for the Pi Network ecosystem. Locking Pi for staking reduces the circulating supply, which could affect the asset’s availability. This mechanism may lead to higher demand as fewer coins remain available in the market.
📣 PiPet users, note:
Pi Network introduced the staking feature to support and rank apps — not to give rewards.
When you stake, your Pi is locked (can’t be used for purchases).
Example: You stake 200 Pi for 60 days .✅ After 60 days, you’ll get back exactly 200 Pi — no bonus…
— SuperChain (@PiSuperChain) June 29, 2025
The Pi Network community sees this model as a way to prioritize valuable applications. When users stake their Pi, they signal trust and preference for specific apps. This could help filter out low-quality or inactive projects in the ecosystem.
While there are no protocol-level rewards, developers can still encourage participation by offering in-app bonuses. These incentives vary across applications and depend on developer strategies. Therefore, the utility of staking depends on the app’s response to user engagement.
Developers Gain Tools, While Users Adjust to New Model
With the Pi App Studio, developers now have a dedicated platform to build and deploy applications on the Pi Network. The directory staking model complements this by giving developers visibility based on user trust. This system shifts the focus toward real engagement rather than passive investment.
The Pi Network continues to grow, but clarity in communication remains critical for user confidence. Transparent updates help align expectations and avoid future misunderstandings. As more apps join the network, developer-led incentives may shape participation trends.
Ultimately, the Pi Network must ensure that users understand new features completely. While innovation is welcomed, simplicity and clarity remain vital to building trust.
