HTC Aria sorta kinda supports sideloading of apps

We previously lamented AT&T’s inability to grasp one of the greatest features of Android — being able to load any app you want on it — when they stripped their new HTC Aria of the ability.

So we were a little surprised to find out that a weekend update to HTC’s Sync software enabled just that.

Engadget broke the news, and can confirm that it indeed allows installation of non-market apps — like Swype — via a Windows Machine with a USB connection.

Now, given AT&T’s previous hatred of freedom, we can’t be sure that this feature won’t be “fixed” by AT&T soon, but, for the moment, the software is available right here for anyone with a legit serial number.