Pi Network Domain Auctions Attract 200,000+ Bids

Pi Network’s .pi Domain Auction has been a trending topic in its ecosystem. Over 200,000 bids were placed in less than a week since launching on Pi Day 2025, showcasing robust participation from Pioneers, businesses, and developers. 

This surge in activity underscores the growing utility of Pi coin as it expands its ecosystem into real-world commerce and digital interactions. With more than 95,000 domains receiving active bids and a staggering 2.9 million Pi staked in the auction, the event marks a pivotal moment for the Pi Network’s Mainnet community.

A Look Into .pi Domains

.pi domains represent a new frontier in blockchain-based digital identity. Like traditional Web2 domains, these unique identifiers allow individuals, businesses, and apps to establish a presence within the Pi ecosystem. Unlike conventional domains, .pi domains are deeply integrated with the Pi blockchain, enabling secure ownership, transfers, and operations. The protocol aims to utilize the Web3 innovation to enhance branding, accessibility, and commerce for Pioneers.

For users within the Pi Browser, a .pi domain like “joe.pi” serves as a seamless digital storefront or identity. Beyond the Pi ecosystem, these domains are accessible via the “.pinet.com” extension (e.g., “joe.pinet.com”) on legacy browsers like Chrome and Safari, bridging the gap between Web3 and traditional internet infrastructure. While legacy browsers cannot guarantee widespread adoption, the dual-access feature broadens the reach of .pi domains.

Auction Highlights: Key Stats and Participation

The .pi Domain Auction, exclusive to Pioneers on the Pi Mainnet, has already delivered impressive numbers, according to the updated blog:

• Over 200,000 bids placed;
• More than 40,000 unique bidders;
• Over 95,000 domains with active bids;
• 2.9 million Pi in active bids;
• Highest bid to date: 30,000 Pi.

These figures reflect the enthusiasm of the Pi community. The highest bid of 30,000 Pi highlights the competitive nature of the event and the perceived value of the premium .pi domains.

Proceeds from the domain sales will fund ecosystem development, including developer programs and community events, ensuring long-term growth.

New Policy Document Clarifies Rules

In response to community inquiries, Pi Network released a comprehensive Auction Domain Name Issuance Disclosure and Policy alongside a detailed FAQ. These documents outline compliance requirements, trademark considerations, and participation rules for Pioneers and businesses. The policy aims to provide transparency and address key questions as the auction progresses.

General Use and Functionality

• How do .pi domains compare to traditional domains? They serve as unique identifiers within the Pi ecosystem, leveraging blockchain for ownership and operation, unlike Web2 domains, which are reliant on centralized registrars.
• Will .pi domains work outside the Pi Browser? Yes, via the “.pinet.com” extension, though broader integration depends on third-party adoption.
• Can I bid on my username? Yes, if it’s available, Pioneers will be offered a chance to claim personalized domains.
• Where do the proceeds go? All Pi from sales supports ecosystem initiatives.

Domain Reservations for Developers

Developers of PiNet-compliant apps that completed migration by May 28, 2025, can reserve domains without bidding, subject to specific guidelines. This incentive rewards early adopters and strengthens the ecosystem’s app infrastructure.

Bidding and Auction Process

• Multiple bids: Pioneers can bid on several domains simultaneously.
• Bid flexibility: Bids placed with claimable balances can be withdrawn anytime before the auction ends on June 28, 2025. Standard payments (e.g., via exchanges) are refundable post-auction.
• Last-minute bids: Auctions extend by 24 hours if a bid is placed or altered within the final 24 hours of a domain’s window.
• Ownership: Winners gain immediate ownership post-auction, with potential future renewal fees akin to traditional domains.
• Rule changes: Pi Network reserves the right to modify auction rules, ensuring fairness and preventing exploits.

Ownership and Renewals

• Resale and transfers: .pi domains can be resold or transferred, adhering to applicable laws.
• Expiration: Unrenewed domains will eventually re-enter the pool for registration.

Why the .pi Domain Auction Matters

The auction’s success demonstrates Pi’s evolution from a mobile-first cryptocurrency to a platform-level utility. Pi empowers its community to build apps, businesses, and online services by enabling blockchain-based domain ownership. This aligns with the network’s mission to make cryptocurrency accessible and functional for all.

The event also highlights Pi’s Open Network, which connects the ecosystem to external platforms, enhancing its real-world applicability. As businesses and developers secure .pi domains, the foundation is laid for a vibrant Web3 economy rooted in Pi’s blockchain.

The auction concludes on June 28, 2025, with winners accessing their domains via the Domain Auction page or app, tied to their bidding wallet addresses. While the current rules favor flexibility, such as withdrawable bids, Pi Network may adjust its policies to ensure a fair and effective process.

For now, the .pi Domain Auction stands as a testament to the Pi community’s engagement and the cryptocurrency’s growing role in digital commerce.