You don't have to be rooted to install those deodexed apk files. There are a couple more 2.1 packaged apps out like this, the 2.1 gallery, and the 2.1 music player I think. I'm positive the gallery and the genie weather widget both don't need root, and are safe.
You might have to enable that setting to allow installing packages of unknown origin though. Should be under Settings > Applications