Getting Started with Z-Text in 5 Minutes

You can go from zero to sending your first encrypted blockchain message in under five minutes. This guide walks you through every step of getting started with Z-Text.

Minute 1: Download & Install

Z-Text is available on all major platforms. Download it from your app store or the Z-Text website. The app is lightweight -- under 50MB on mobile and under 100MB on desktop.

On Android, you can also install from F-Droid or download the APK directly for sideloading. On desktop, download the appropriate installer for your operating system.

Minute 2: Create Your Wallet

When you first open Z-Text, you'll see two options: Create New Wallet or Restore Wallet. For new users, tap Create New Wallet.

The app generates your cryptographic identity in seconds. Behind the scenes, it creates a shielded z-address (for private messaging and transactions) and a transparent t-address (for public transactions). These are derived from a master seed that the app generates using cryptographically secure randomness.

Minute 3: Back Up Your Seed Phrase

Z-Text will display 24 words in a specific order. This is your seed phrase -- the master key to your entire wallet. Write these words down on paper, in order.

The app will then quiz you on several of the words to verify you recorded them correctly. This step is critical. If you lose your device and don't have this phrase, your wallet, messages, and contacts are gone permanently. No one can recover them for you.

Store the paper in a safe, private location. Consider making a second copy stored somewhere separate.

Minute 4: Set Your PIN

Choose a 6-digit PIN that you'll enter each time you open the app. On devices that support it, you can also enable biometric authentication (fingerprint or Face ID) for quicker access.

Your PIN protects the app if someone gets physical access to your device. Choose something memorable to you but not easily guessed by others.

Minute 5: Send Your First Message

To message someone, you first need to complete a handshake -- a cryptographic key exchange that establishes a secure channel. Here's the quick flow:

1. Get your contact's z-address (they can share it as text or a QR code)
2. Go to Contacts, tap Add Contact, and enter their address
3. Tap Send Handshake -- this sends a small blockchain transaction
4. Wait for your contact to accept (they'll see a notification in their app)
5. Once accepted, open the conversation and type your message

Your message will be encrypted with two layers of cryptography and broadcast to the blockchain. Within seconds, your contact will receive it via G-stream push.

Getting BTCZ for Messaging

Since messages are blockchain transactions, you need a small amount of BTCZ to cover transaction fees. The cost per message is minimal -- a few BTCZ at most.

You can acquire BTCZ from cryptocurrency exchanges that list it, receive it from another Z-Text user, or participate in the BitcoinZ community where BTCZ is distributed.

What's Next?

You're now set up with Z-Text. Explore the app's features at your own pace: send stickers, manage your wallet balance, customize your settings, and invite more contacts to join.

For deeper dives into specific features, check out our documentation covering messaging, wallet management, security settings, and more.