In the ever-evolving world of cryptocurrencies, Pi Network has emerged as a unique player, promising to make digital currency accessible to everyone. Launched on March 14, 2019 (Pi Day), by a team of Stanford graduates, including Nicolas Kokkalis and Chengdiao Fan, Pi Network aims to democratize cryptocurrency mining by allowing users to "mine" coins directly from their smartphones. Unlike traditional cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, which rely on energy-intensive processes and specialized hardware, Pi Network offers a fresh approach that prioritizes inclusivity, energy efficiency, and ease of use. In this article, we’ll explore what Pi Network is, how it operates, and how it stands apart from Bitcoin, with an invitation code—BillBeto—to get you started.

What Is Pi Network?

Pi Network is a mobile-based cryptocurrency project designed to bring digital currency to the masses. Unlike most cryptocurrencies that require significant computational power or financial investment, Pi Network allows users to earn Pi coins simply by tapping a button in its mobile app once every 24 hours. The project’s vision is to create the world’s most widely distributed cryptocurrency, fueled by a peer-to-peer ecosystem where everyday people can participate without technical expertise or expensive equipment.

To join Pi Network, you need an invitation code from an existing user. If you’re ready to explore this innovative platform, use the code BillBeto when signing up to start mining your first Pi coins. The process is straightforward: download the Pi Network app (available on iOS and Android), enter the invitation code, and begin your mining journey. As of March 4, 2025, Pi Network boasts over 70 million users worldwide, a testament to its growing popularity and community-driven approach.

Pi Network operates in three phases:

1. Beta Phase: Focused on building the community and distributing Pi coins to early adopters.

2. Testnet Phase: A testing ground for the blockchain, where developers refine the system and deploy nodes.

3. Mainnet Phase: The fully operational blockchain, which transitioned to an "Open Mainnet" on February 20, 2025, allowing Pi coins to be traded externally.

Currently, Pi coins are not yet widely tradable on major exchanges, but the recent Open Mainnet launch has paved the way for listings on platforms like OKX and Bitget, signaling potential real-world utility on the horizon.

How Pi Network Differs from Bitcoin

While Bitcoin remains the gold standard of cryptocurrencies, Pi Network takes a radically different approach. Here’s how the two compare across key aspects:

1. Mining Process

• Bitcoin: Bitcoin uses a Proof of Work (PoW) consensus mechanism, where miners compete to solve complex mathematical puzzles to validate transactions and earn rewards. This process requires powerful hardware—like ASICs—and consumes vast amounts of electricity, equivalent to the energy usage of entire countries.

• Pi Network: Pi Network employs the Stellar Consensus Protocol (SCP), a low-energy alternative that doesn’t rely on computational puzzles. Instead, it uses a trust-based system where users vouch for each other’s authenticity through "security circles." Mining Pi is as simple as opening the app and pressing a button daily—no heavy equipment or energy bills required.

2. Accessibility

• Bitcoin: Mining Bitcoin is out of reach for most individuals due to the high cost of hardware and electricity. It’s largely dominated by large-scale mining operations, making it less inclusive.

• Pi Network: Pi’s mobile-first design eliminates barriers to entry. Anyone with a smartphone can participate, aligning with its mission to empower everyday people. With the invitation code BillBeto, you can join millions of "Pioneers" already mining Pi at no cost.

3. Energy Efficiency

• Bitcoin: Bitcoin’s energy consumption is a well-documented drawback, often criticized for its environmental impact. A single Bitcoin transaction can use as much energy as an average U.S. household does in weeks.

• Pi Network: By leveraging SCP, Pi Network consumes negligible energy, making it eco-friendly. The app runs in the background without draining your phone’s battery or data, a stark contrast to Bitcoin’s resource-heavy model.

4. Supply and Distribution

• Bitcoin: Bitcoin has a fixed supply cap of 21 million coins, creating scarcity that drives its value. However, much of this supply is concentrated among early adopters and institutional players.

• Pi Network: Pi aims for a total supply of 100 billion coins, with a focus on broad distribution. Its referral system—where users like you can invite others using codes like BillBeto—encourages network growth and rewards participants with a 25% mining bonus for active referrals.

5. Current Utility

• Bitcoin: As a mature cryptocurrency, Bitcoin is widely accepted as a store of value and medium of exchange, traded on countless platforms and used globally.

• Pi Network: Pi is still in its early stages. While it has transitioned to Open Mainnet, its real-world utility is still developing. The project emphasizes building an ecosystem of Pi-powered apps and services, though it lags behind Bitcoin in market acceptance.

6. Community Focus

• Bitcoin: Bitcoin’s community is diverse, comprising developers, investors, and miners, but it doesn’t rely on social trust for its security.

• Pi Network: Pi places a strong emphasis on community. Users build trust networks, and roles like Pioneers, Contributors, and Ambassadors foster engagement. The referral system (join with BillBeto!) is a key driver of its growth.

Opportunities and Challenges

Pi Network’s innovative approach offers exciting opportunities. Its accessibility could onboard millions into the crypto space, especially in regions where traditional mining is impractical. The eco-friendly design also aligns with growing demand for sustainable technology. However, challenges remain. Critics question its centralized control during early phases, the lack of transparency in its blockchain, and whether Pi will achieve meaningful value once fully tradable. Bitcoin, despite its energy drawbacks, benefits from proven security and widespread adoption—hurdles Pi must still overcome.

Get Started with Pi Network

If Pi Network’s vision resonates with you, there’s no better time to join. Download the Pi Network app, sign up with the invitation code BillBeto, and start mining today. It’s free, low-effort, and could position you as an early adopter in a project with ambitious goals. While it’s not Bitcoin, Pi Network offers a distinct alternative that reimagines how cryptocurrency can work for the average person.

In conclusion, Pi Network stands out by prioritizing accessibility, sustainability, and community over the resource-intensive model of Bitcoin. Whether it will rival Bitcoin’s dominance remains to be seen, but its unique approach is worth exploring. Use BillBeto to dive in and see where this journey takes you!