Pi Network founders Chengdiao Fan and Nicolas Kokkalis are appearing as featured speakers at Consensus 2026 in Miami this week, according to an announcement from Pi Core Team on May 5, 2026. The appearances mark a strategic repositioning of the project around AI, identity, and ecosystem development.
Founder Speaking Sessions and AI Focus
Chengdiao Fan will speak on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, from 11:15–11:35 AM EDT on the Convergence Stage. Her session is titled "Aligning Web3, AI, and Blockchain for Utility" and will explore how Pi's blockchain infrastructure and verified identity system could support AI-era business models.
Nicolas Kokkalis will participate in a panel discussion focused on human verification in an AI-driven internet, specifically addressing how users can prove they are human "without doxxing yourself." According to the announcement, this addresses growing challenges with AI-generated bots becoming harder to detect online, with Pi positioning its KYC-based identity system as a potential solution.
Pi Desktop Application Studio Launch
Concurrently with the conference, Pi's ecosystem is expanding with the launch of the Pi Desktop Application Studio. According to community updates, the platform is designed to help users build applications with AI integration. The platform reportedly supports App Studio AI alongside external tools like Claude Code and Cursor, and may not require advanced coding skills to participate.
Community commentary described the tool as a turning point, stating: "Pi is no longer just about mining… but about delivering the tools to build your own ecosystem." This shift represents a move beyond token mining toward app creation within the Pi network.
Protocol 23 Upgrade and Network Development
The founder appearances come ahead of Protocol 23 activation, which is expected to enable smart contracts and PiDex functionality. At the time of writing, PI trades near $0.18.
FAQ
What are the Pi founders discussing at Consensus 2026?
According to the Pi Core Team announcement, Chengdiao Fan will discuss how Pi's infrastructure and verified identity system could support AI-era business models. Nicolas Kokkalis will participate in a panel on human verification in an AI-driven internet, addressing how users can prove authenticity without compromising privacy.
What is the Pi Desktop Application Studio?
The Pi Desktop Application Studio is a new platform launched to help users build applications with AI integration. According to community updates, it supports App Studio AI and external tools like Claude Code and Cursor, and is designed to be accessible to users without advanced coding skills.
When is Protocol 23 expected to activate?
The source indicates Protocol 23 activation is expected to occur around the time of the Consensus 2026 conference, with the upgrade expected to enable smart contracts and PiDex functionality, though no specific activation date is provided.
