> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://developer.z-api.io/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Introduction

> Understand what mobile instances are and how to register a number

## Mobile Instances

Mobile instances work like a real phone for WhatsApp — no emulator or physical device required. Instead of being connected as a secondary device, like in the case of a web instance, it is the primary device.

This means that when using a mobile instance, the number will be unlinked from WhatsApp on the physical phone. However, it is still possible to integrate normally with services, systems, and automations to monitor and manage conversations.

***

## Advantages

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Security settings">
    Email configuration and PIN codes for account protection.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Primary device">
    The instance acts as the primary device, with no emulator or physical phone required.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Email management">
    Configuration and verification of the email linked to the account.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Security PIN code">
    PIN code functionality for additional account security.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

***

## Registration flow

To register a number on a mobile instance, follow the flow below:

<Steps>
  <Step title="Check availability">
    Verify the number's eligibility and whether it is banned.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Request code">
    Request the confirmation code via SMS, voice call, or app.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Captcha (if needed)">
    Complete the captcha verification if requested.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Confirm code">
    Enter the received confirmation code.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Confirm PIN">
    Enter the security PIN, if previously configured.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Recover PIN">
    Option to recover the security code if forgotten.
  </Step>
</Steps>

<Note>
  Keep in mind that the other WhatsApp-related APIs - such as sending messages and account interactions - work the same way as for web instances. That is, the methods are fully compatible between instances.
</Note>