Android Sideload Wonder Machine Allows For Sideloading Of Apps Even When The Carrier Doesn't

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Without question, one of the issues that we hear complaints about regarding AT&T and Android is the lack of ability to install apps that are not in the official Android Market. And while I personally do not think this issue affects all that many people, its still not ideal.

As far as AT&T is concerned, they are doing it to protect the user and trying to ensure a better overall experience. I can understand and even respect that, but again, its not an ideal situation. That said, those users who are bothered by this issue may want to check out the recently released “Sideload Wonder Machine” which according to the description will “let you sideload apps on ANY Android device, on any carrier.”

And to further add to that nice description, you do not need to have the Android SDK installed and you do not need to be rooted. Basically, it would appear as if all you need is a Windows PC (yes, the downer here is that this is Windows only) and your Android phone connected by way of USB.

Otherwise in order to get this setup and working you will need to enable USB debugging on your phone. And for those not as familiar with the Android settings menu — in order to enable USB debugging you will need to go to Menu -> Settings -> Applications -> Development and then check the box next to USB debugging.

Bottom line, find the apps that you want to install, connect your phone to your computer, launch the Sideload Wonder Machine and install away. Of course, while I poke fun at AT&T here, there is no reason why any Android user on any carrier cannot take advantage of this.

And as for anyone wondering if this will void the warranty or get them in trouble with Google and/or the carrier. The short answer is no, but to further add to that;

“This is the approved way to sideload applications direct from Android/Google. All we did was remove the difficult parts — installing and setting up the SDK, and using the command prompt.”