The Core Team behind Pi Network has officially implemented a major change to the pricing structure of its AI-powered App Studio. Starting from August 24, the project will no longer heavily subsidize app creation and editing costs for all developers.
Until now, Pi Network charged creators 0.25 PI to generate an application and another 0.25 PI to edit it. The team stated that these introductory prices did not reflect the actual costs involved in AI-powered app creation, with the network previously covering the difference.
Under the new model, the standard price for creating and editing apps reflects the underlying costs of the required AI services. The fee does not necessarily remain a fixed amount and can vary depending on the resources consumed. The team emphasized that it will not add a markup on top of the underlying AI costs.
Exceptions and Subsidized Rates
Creators whose applications attract sufficient numbers of real and distinct users can continue paying the old subsidized rates. The team uses existing App Studio data to determine the initial group of qualifying developers, though eligibility is not permanent.
Developers who do not initially qualify can become eligible later if their applications gain actual usage. The team noted that the specific qualification criteria may evolve over time.
Goals and Market Context
According to the announcement, the change is designed to prevent network resources from being spent on experiments, tests, or spam applications, while incentivizing developers to build practical products.
The update coincides with a period where the native token PI has been fighting for the $0.09 level, while Bitcoin and other altcoins have seen double-digit surges.
