As flight technology becomes more advanced and affordable, it will begin to put a dent in the pockets of the aerial photographers I used to pay $1000s to shoot custom aerials.

You can actually control an AR.Drone from any Android or iPhone device. Here is the app's description on iTunes:

Discover and pilot the Parrot AR.Drone and AR.Drone 2.0 from Parrot using the new application, AR.FreeFlight 2.2.

INTUITIVE – Download AR.FreeFlight 2.2, the free control application, and you are ready to fly! By tilting your iPhone, iPod or iPad you control the direction of your AR.Drone. When you release control, the AR.Drone is instantly stabilized in the air. AR.FreeFlight 2.2 is compatible with the Parrot AR.Drone and the Parrot AR.Drone 2.0

FLY LIKE A CHAMPION – The AR.Drone is equipped with intuitive sensors that allow it to remain stable in the air, virtually flying itself. Anyone can fly like a champion as the embedded sensors allow for easy take-off and landing. With the AR.Drone 2.0 and AR.FreeFlight 2.2, you can access the exclusive and patented Absolute Control piloting mode for beginners that can be adjusted with your growing expertise.

RECORD HIGH DEFINITION VIDEO - As you fly, the HD video is recorded and sent via WiFi directly to your device after you land. With one click, upload your video from the user-friendly interface seamlessly to Youtube or share your pictures on Picasa.

While the app has received relatively negative reviews, I would guess there are still some kinks which need to be worked out. That said, this technological advancement will be a disruptive force to the aerial photography industry.

Here is an AR.Drone in action:

Maybe the air is the next frontier for Google Maps...