I'm fairly new to the various controls systems in 0-Gauge, but I have no doubt that this (or a variation of this) is the future. In a world where everything is getting unplugged from old systems and plugged into portable devices there really is no need for expensive control systems when everyone already carries around a far more capable computer in their pockets. When apps can be upgraded at-will, no one has to worry about buying a system that might be come obsolete.
For those who prefer a more physical interface, I'm sure that at some point there will be a bluetooth compatible controller with throttle levers, switches, etc but it might be something with a smartphone port.