Pi Network goes open-source next week, but there's still one catch

Business Mayor

15-05-2025

Pi Network shuts down its central node and preps open-source code, citing decentralization goals.
Big announcements teased could redefine Pi's future — or deepen the decentralization debate.
Just as the crypto crowd descends on Toronto for Consensus 2025, Pi Network [PI] has decided to steal a bit of the spotlight, shutting down its central node and open-sourcing its code in one bold move.
Add to this an announcement wrapped in mystery, and we've got all the ingredients for a stunner. But is this a real step toward decentralization, or just a well-timed flex?
Either way, the Pi community has reason to stay tuned – because the next chapter might just be the most telling yet.
A central node no more
Pi Network's core team has officially shut down its central node. The announcement was paired with a network diagram that visually confirmed the node's removal.
Source: X
The shift is in line with Pi's mission to evolve into a decentralized blockchain, secured by its proprietary improved proof of stake (IPoS) mechanism.
With the source code soon to be released, the Pi community awaits developments that bring in a new era of transparency.
But while enthusiasts celebrate, critics remain unconvinced.
The network's referral-based mining model and notably opaque governance still raise eyebrows.
Notably, the core team's continued control over supernode selection — and its reported hold on 82.8 billion PI — have fueled ongoing concerns about the project's decentralization claims.
All eyes on Consensus
The timing couldn't be better.
Just as the crypto world swarms to Consensus 2025, Pi Network is hyping the community up with a series of not-so-subtle teasers. First up: a major announcement slated for the 14th of May.
Source: X
Then? Promises of something 'GREAT/GOOD' on the 15th, capped off by a speech from Pi co-founder Dr. Nicolas Kokkalis on the 16th.
Source: X
This is a three-day show that has the world talking — and the stakes have never been higher.
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The decentralization debate
Even with the central node gone and open-source code on the horizon, Pi Network hasn't fully shaken off the criticism.
Its mainnet remains closed, coin transfers are still off-limits, and basic access features like 'lightning' often require VPNs in some regions.
For a project that champions decentralization, these roadblocks feel at odds with the message.
The upcoming announcements may bring about a change, but until the network becomes truly open and borderless, nothing's for certain.