[fiverglem]

when the phone boots up it has a padlock that's unlocked that says "custom" and after many many factory resets there is still no messaging app...when i put a direct message contact on my home screen it says "app not installed" i would like to fix this on my own rather than sending it back...any suggestions?

[Acturus1982]

Install a messaging app. 'Hangouts' for example.

[prolongExistence]

ChompSMS is another good option. Several more features than Hangouts.

But, more importantly, did you buy this as a new device? The unlocked padlock indicates that the bootloader is unlocked, allowing you to install custom ROMs. I'm assuming that since there is no msg app then you aren't using stock android. This becomes a problem if you purchased this as a new device. Your warranty will most likely be void now. If you knowingly purchased a used or reconditioned device then it most likely doesn't matter anyway, just enjoy.