For decades, Python has been the language of experimentation and innovation. It powers everything from data science notebooks to the neural networks behind modern AI. Its readability, massive ecosystem, and approachable syntax have made it the default choice for researchers, analysts, and machine learning engineers alike.
Now, with the release of Algorand Python 5.0 and the Algorand Python Language Server, Python is becoming a bridge between two worlds that are rapidly converging: AI and blockchain.
Why Python matters in Web3
Python has always been about turning ideas into reality quickly. It lets developers test, iterate, and ship faster than most other languages. That agility is just as valuable in blockchain development, where innovation moves fast and efficiency matters.
With Algorand Python, developers can now write and deploy smart contracts using the same language they already use for automation, data analysis, or AI model training without having to learn a new syntax or framework. Development happens in a familiar environment, using the same tools and patterns Python developers know.
This can lower the barrier to entry for millions of developers and let existing Python projects integrate blockchain logic seamlessly.
Introducing Algorand Python 5.0
The release of Algorand Python 5.0 delivers improvements in performance, usability, and developer experience. Highlights include:
- Pattern matching improvements and better template variable support.
- Simplified box storage and array handling.
- Faster compilation and smaller contracts.
- Improved error messages and clearer diagnostics.
- AVM version upgrades for broader compatibility.
- A new Algorand Python Language Server for autocompletion, code navigation, and inline documentation.
Together, these improvements can make developing smart contracts in Python faster, safer, and more natural.
The role of the language server
If you spend your day in VS Code, the Algorand Python language server changes how you build on-chain applications. It provides:
- IntelliSense-style autocompletion and hover docs for Algorand APIs.
- Real-time diagnostics and error highlighting as you type.
- Go to definition, find references, and rename symbol.
- Quick fixes and curated snippets for common contract patterns.
Even in its beta stage, the language server makes Python contract development feel modern and responsive, bringing blockchain coding closer to the productivity you expect from any mature development stack.
Python as a bridge between AI and blockchain
Artificial intelligence and blockchain can often feel like two separate domains. One focuses on computation, prediction, and learning. The other focuses on verification, provenance, and trust. Yet as AI systems become more autonomous and valuable, the need for verifiable, transparent, and secure execution grows.
Python sits between these worlds. It is already the dominant language for AI research and production pipelines. By enabling Python to compile directly to Algorand bytecode, Algorand Python 5.0 allows both AI and non-AI developers to make their AI outputs auditable, traceable, and even monetizable on-chain.
This unlocks entirely new categories of applications:
- AI models that publish signed, verifiable predictions.
- Data marketplaces that provide transparent tracking of training data and results.
- Decentralized AI agents that execute payments and actions autonomously.
- Hybrid systems where algorithms run in Python and record proof of computation on Algorand.
Algorand Python provides the missing piece for connecting intelligent systems with verifiable blockchain logic.
Hello World in Algorand Python
Here is a minimal example of a Python smart contract running on Algorand. This is the exact code from our Python Smart Contract Example.
You can explore more examples here:
- Python Smart Contract example: https://examples.dev.algorand.co/python-smart-contract/
- Python Hello World (Full Stack): https://examples.dev.algorand.co/python-fullstack/
- Python Utils notebook: https://examples.dev.algorand.co/python-utils-notebook/
- Examples gallery (Python and TypeScript): https://examples.dev.algorand.co/
Build the future with Python and Algorand
AI needs a verifiable foundation for ownership and trust. Blockchain needs intelligent systems that can act, adapt, and transact. Python connects both.
With Algorand Python 5.0 and the Algorand Python Language Server, developers can move seamlessly from prototyping an AI model to deploying a verifiable, on-chain agent. It is the same syntax, the same tools, and the same mindset, now with Algorand as the execution layer.
Whether you are experimenting with AI-driven agents, building data marketplaces, or simply looking for a faster way to write smart contracts, Algorand Python 5.0 is ready for you.
Start building today with AlgoKit, your complete toolkit for developing, testing, and deploying on Algorand:
https://algorand.co/algokit
Disclaimer: The content provided in this blog is for informational purposes only. The information is provided by the Algorand Foundation and while we strive to keep the information up-to-date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability with respect to the blog or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained in the blog for any purpose.
The content of this blog does not constitute financial, investment, or professional advice. You should not take any action before conducting your own research or consulting with a qualified professional. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.
In no event will Algorand Foundation be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect, or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this blog.
Through this blog, you may be able to link to other websites which are not under the control of or maintained by the Algorand Foundation. We have no control over the nature, content, and availability of those sites. The inclusion of any links does not imply a recommendation nor endorse the content, products, services, or views expressed therein.