The AR.Drone quadricopter really is quite a nifty toy ... or tool ... or whatever you want to call it. Up until now, however, it could only be controlled by an iPhone/iPad/iPod touch, an Android smartphone, or for the people who have one, a Linux PC. While those options weren't exactly holding users back, the folks over at Drone Apps realized that a lot more would be possible if the aircraft could be piloted through an iMac or Macbook - most importantly, controllers such as joysticks and gamepads could be used. The result is an OS X application called Drone Station.

Among other things, the app lets users record video or snap stills from the drone's front and bottom cameras, and practice their flying skills on a simulator before sending their US$300 quadricopter skyward. The onscreen display also provides real-time readings on attitude, altitude, direction, and battery level. Additionally, by using an external USB WiFi dongle on their computer, users can reportedly get over three times the range possible using a mobile device.