TL;DR
- Pi Network introduced PiRC2, a subscription-focused smart contract now live on its Testnet, enabling developers to test recurring payment logic directly on-chain.
- The model removes the need for prefunding and repeated approvals by allowing users to set controlled spending limits.
- This approach tackles a persistent issue in blockchain infrastructure and highlights Pi Network’s push toward real-world utility ahead of any Mainnet rollout.
Pi Network is expanding its ecosystem with the release of PiRC2, a smart contract standard designed to support recurring payments on-chain. The feature is currently deployed on Pi Testnet, where developers can experiment with subscription-based services and evaluate system performance in a controlled environment.
To open the Testnet subscription smart contract to technical review and community feedback, Pi has released the second Pi Request for Comment (PiRC2).
Developers are encouraged to try integrating subscriptions in their own apps, review the subscription contract design, and test…
— Pi Network (@PiCoreTeam) April 22, 2026
Pi Network Subscription Model Introduces New Payment Logic
Recurring payments have been difficult to implement across blockchain networks. Existing approaches often rely on off-chain coordination or require users to approve each billing cycle manually. In some cases, funds must be locked in advance, reducing flexibility and limiting user control.
Pi Network’s model introduces a different mechanism. Users approve a predefined spending limit once, and the smart contract processes payments periodically within that range. Funds remain in the user’s wallet until each transaction is executed, which reduces custody risks and improves capital efficiency.
The system also allows time-based limits. For instance, users can authorize monthly payments capped over 12 months, maintaining clear boundaries over both duration and total spending. This structure mirrors traditional subscription systems while maintaining blockchain transparency.
Developer Testing And Ecosystem Integration Expand
The Pi Core Team has released detailed documentation for PiRC2 through a public repository, covering contract logic, billing cycles, and service configuration. Current testing focuses on backend integration and identifying edge cases in subscription execution.
This development follows recent infrastructure updates, including Protocol 21, which improved node performance and transaction processing. Combined with Testnet RPC tools, developers now have a more complete environment to simulate real-world use cases.
External audits are running alongside community testing. This parallel review process aims to detect technical vulnerabilities and usability challenges before any broader deployment.
PiRC Framework Signals Shift Toward Utility
PiRC2 builds on PiRC1, which introduced token design standards linked to earlier network upgrades. Together, these proposals reflect a structured roadmap for expanding Pi Network’s capabilities.
The focus on subscription functionality supports use cases such as digital services, memberships, and software access. These applications depend on predictable recurring payments, an area where blockchain solutions have faced limitations.
No timeline has been confirmed for Mainnet integration. For now, Pi Network continues to prioritize testing, feedback, and system validation.
