Pi Network v19.9 Upgrade Clears Path for Pi DEX Launch

Pi Network news today shows it has completed another key technical upgrade. As the project prepares for new ecosystem features. On March 4, the Pi Core Team confirmed that the network successfully migrated to protocol version 19.9. The update is part of a larger upgrade path that will eventually move the network to version 23.

Network Update: Protocol v19.9 migration successfully completed. Next up is v20.2 — Aiming to complete before Pi Day 2026. Node operators should make sure they’re upgraded and stay tuned for further instructions: https://t.co/mnbwVzhaD9

— Pi Network (@PiCoreTeam) March 4, 2026

The upgrade also signals the next step in Pi’s roadmap. According to the team, the next version v20.2, should arrive before Pi Day on March 14. Node operators have been asked to prepare for the update. They follow the upgrade instructions carefully. These changes are happening step by step to keep the network stable while it expands.

Network Upgrade Moves Step by Step

Pi Network is currently moving through a series of planned protocol upgrades. The full upgrade path goes from version 19 all the way to version 23. Each step must finish before the next one begins. So far, the network has moved through versions 19.1, 19.6 and now 19.9. The next step will be version 20.2. Which must be completed by March 12.

According to the Pi Core Team, this next upgrade should be quick. The team said the update doesn’t require major internal data migrations. As a result, downtime is expected to stay under 15 minutes. But node operators must still upgrade their software on time. If nodes don’t follow the upgrade path correctly. They may disconnect from the network.

Community Eyes Possible Pi DEX Launch

While the official update focuses on technical progress. Many in the community are watching another possible milestone. Some Pi supporters believe the completed upgrade could help prepare the network for the launch of a Pi decentralized exchange, often called Pi DEX. A well-known Pi community advocate on X said the v19.9 upgrade “sets the foundation” for the expected launch. 

According to that view, the Pi DEX could arrive around March 12. Once the next upgrade is complete. If that happens, it could allow peer-to-peer trading within the Pi ecosystem. Supporters believe this would add real utility to the network. It strengthens the growing ecosystem of apps built on Pi.

The network already reports more than 17 million KYC-verified users. Those are often referred to as “Pioneers.” Many community members believe a DEX could help activate a stronger internal economy. However, the Pi Core Team has not officially confirmed the DEX launch timeline.

Users Warned About Growing Phishing Scams

At the same time, community members are warning users about new scams targeting Pi holders. Some fake accounts have reportedly been posting phishing messages under official Pi related threads. These posts often ask users to send screenshots or contact fake support emails. The goal is to trick users into revealing their wallet recovery phrases.

Pi advocates have warned users to stay cautious. They stress that mnemonic phrases should only be enter inside the official Pi Browser or personal wallet. Users should never share those phrases with anyone else. As Pi Network continues to grow, security remains an important issue. With millions of users now holding Pi in wallets, scammers are increasingly trying to exploit the community.