Are you know what is the Best Drone Apps for Android? Excited to take your new drone for a spin? Absolutely! But before you hit the skies, it’s essential to equip yourself with the right tools to fly safely and make the most of your drone experience. Beyond the basic control software, there are extra apps that can enhance your flight with added features and insights. Today, let’s dive into some of the best drone apps available to help you get more from every flight.
Before you take off, it’s helpful to know what you want to achieve with your flight. Whether it’s staying compliant with local regulations, logging your flights, or checking weather conditions, there’s an app for just about every drone need. Your requirements might vary depending on your drone type, too—a camera drone may need different tools compared to a racing drone.
Browse this list to explore the range of functions non-manufacturer apps can offer, from flight planning and tracking to airspace awareness and weather updates. We’re here to help you discover new, useful tools to enhance your drone experience.
Drone Remote ID Requirements in the United States
As of September 16, 2022, new Remote ID requirements are in place for drone flights in the United States. Under these regulations:
- All new drones must include Remote ID hardware that broadcasts identifying information.
- Remote ID must remain active on your drone if it is available.
- For older drones, you have until September 16, 2023, to retrofit them with Remote ID capabilities.
Remote ID helps authorities monitor drone flights for safety and compliance. Before you fly, ensure you’re familiar with the current drone laws and regulations in your area.
Top 10 Best Drone Apps for Android
A curated list of must-have Android apps to elevate your drone flying experience. Featuring tools for flight planning, airspace awareness, weather updates, mapping, and advanced camera controls. Ideal for both hobbyists and professionals seeking enhanced safety, regulatory compliance, and superior capture quality.
1. Google Earth
As you’re aware, one of the first things you’ll need to do with any drone—after registering it—is find a great place to fly. Google Earth is a fantastic tool for this, providing detailed aerial views and terrain information to assist with pre-flight planning. By exploring 3D maps and satellite imagery, you can assess the terrain, spot potential obstacles, and identify landscape features for safe, scenic flights. For drone photography, Google Earth also lets you scout ideal shooting locations remotely, saving you time and helping you plan for the perfect shots.
Google Earth for Android Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Platform | Android 6.0 or higher |
| App Size | Approximately 100 MB (varies by device and updates) |
| 3D Imagery | Yes, supports detailed 3D maps and satellite imagery |
| Offline Access | Yes, for certain regions and maps |
| Street View Integration | Yes, allows virtual exploration of streets and neighborhoods |
| Navigation | Touch-based zoom, pan, and tilt controls |
| Supported Languages | Multiple languages (including English, Spanish, French, etc.) |
| Internet Connection | Required for most features, but some maps can be downloaded offline |
| Updates | Regular updates for new features, imagery, and improvements |
Google Earth for Android Pricing
| Pricing Model | Cost |
|---|---|
| App Cost | Free |
| In-App Purchases | No in-app purchases or paid features required |
| Offline Map Downloads | Free for available regions (requires storage space) |
Google Earth for Android is free to download and use, offering robust features for exploration, education, and photography planning at no cost. The app’s offline capabilities depend on the area you wish to explore, but there are no charges for map downloads or the app itself.
2. Airmap
Airmap is a versatile tool that goes beyond just mapping potential flight locations or logging your flights. Backed by major companies like Microsoft and Qualcomm, as well as drone industry leaders like Yuneec, Airmap is quickly becoming the go-to solution for commercial drone operations. While its commercial tools for drone mapping, geo-fencing, and flight logging are impressive, the real-time traffic alerts in its mobile app alone make it a valuable resource. Whether you’re flying for personal use or running a retail drone business, Airmap has something to offer.
Airmap App Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Platform | Android 6.0 and higher, iOS |
| App Size | Approximately 20-30 MB (varies by device and updates) |
| Supported Drones | Compatible with a variety of drones, including DJI, Yuneec, Parrot, and more |
| Geo-Fencing | Yes, allows creation of virtual boundaries and airspace alerts |
| Real-Time Traffic Alerts | Yes, provides live notifications about nearby air traffic |
| Flight Logging | Yes, detailed logs of flight history, useful for personal and commercial purposes |
| Offline Capabilities | Limited offline functionality (requires internet for full features) |
| User Interface | Intuitive and easy-to-use with touch controls for navigation and flight planning |
| Subscription Plans | Yes, offers both free and paid versions with advanced features |
| Supported Languages | Multiple languages, including English, Spanish, and others |
| Integration with Hardware | Yes, integrates with various drones and flight control systems |
Airmap App Pricing
| Pricing Model | Cost |
|---|---|
| App Cost | Free (basic version) |
| Premium Features | Subscription required for advanced tools and features |
| Subscription Plans | – Basic: Free, with limited features |
| – Pro: Starting from $99/month (for commercial use and advanced features) | |
| – Enterprise: Custom pricing for large-scale commercial operations, including more extensive features and services | |
| In-App Purchases | Optional in-app purchases for additional mapping data or services |
Airmap offers a free version with basic features and paid plans that unlock more advanced capabilities like commercial mapping, real-time airspace information, and flight planning tools for businesses.
3. B4UFLY by the FAA
Let’s keep it simple: the FAA is responsible for enforcing drone laws in the United States, and B4UFly is their app that helps you determine where and when you can fly. However, it can be a bit too cautious at times, flagging areas as no-fly zones when they might actually be permitted. Despite this, the app offers one of the most comprehensive airport listings, showing the 5-mile radius around each. When in doubt, B4UFly is the go-to app for official legal information about drone flights in the U.S.
B4UFLY by the FAA Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Platform | Android, iOS |
| App Size | Approximately 10-15 MB (varies by device and updates) |
| Supported Languages | English |
| Airspace Information | Provides FAA-controlled airspace, airports, and temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) |
| Real-Time Alerts | Yes, for TFRs and other important flight updates |
| Airport Listings | Detailed listings of airports, including the 5-mile radius around each |
| User Interface | Simple, easy-to-use interface with maps and notifications |
| Offline Capabilities | Limited, requires an internet connection for real-time data updates |
| Flight Restrictions | Displays no-fly zones and restricted airspace areas |
| Compliance Information | Provides official FAA guidelines for drone operations |
B4UFLY by the FAA Pricing
| Pricing Model | Cost |
|---|---|
| App Cost | Free |
| In-App Purchases | None |
| Subscription | None |
B4UFly is free to download and use, with no in-app purchases or subscriptions required. It provides essential airspace information and real-time alerts without any cost to the user.
4. Drone Buddy
Drone Buddy is a useful app for finding nearby drone-friendly locations and sharing your favorite spots with the community. It provides wind speed data, sunshine duration, and a no-fly zone map. However, the free version has some limitations. To access additional features such as hourly and daily wind forecasts, expanded flight location options, and more, you can upgrade to the Pro version for $69.99 USD.
Drone Buddy App Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Platform | Android, iOS |
| App Size | Approximately 30 MB (varies by device and updates) |
| Supported Languages | English |
| Weather Information | Wind speed, sunshine duration, and other relevant weather data |
| No-Fly Zone Map | Yes, includes a map showing no-fly zones and restricted airspace |
| Flight Location Sharing | Allows users to share and discover drone-friendly locations |
| Pro Version Features | Hourly and daily wind forecasts, expanded “where to fly” options, and more |
| User Interface | Simple, intuitive interface with easy-to-navigate maps and weather data |
| Offline Capabilities | Limited offline functionality (requires internet for real-time updates) |
| Flight Planning Tools | Basic weather and location data, but lacks in-depth flight planning features |
Drone Buddy App Pricing
| Pricing Model | Cost |
|---|---|
| App Cost (Free Version) | Free |
| Pro Version | $69.99 USD (one-time purchase) |
| In-App Purchases | None |
Drone Buddy offers a free version with basic features and a Pro version priced at $69.99 USD, which unlocks additional weather forecasting and more advanced flight location options.
5. DroneCast
DroneCast offers real-time weather forecasts to help ensure safe flying conditions, providing information on wind speed, gusts, direction, temperature, and visibility. The app also features an interactive map that shows designated drone flying zones, helping you stay within legal flying areas. The free version is ad-free and fully functional, but there is also a subscription option for additional features. The Pro version costs $2.99/month or $26.99/year.
DroneCast App Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Platform | Android, iOS |
| App Size | Approximately 20-30 MB (varies by device and updates) |
| Supported Languages | English |
| Weather Information | Real-time wind speed, gusts, direction, temperature, and visibility data |
| Drone Zone Mapping | Interactive map showing designated drone flying zones |
| User Interface | Simple, easy-to-navigate interface with clear weather and flight data |
| Offline Capabilities | Limited offline functionality (requires internet for real-time updates) |
| Pro Version Features | Advanced weather forecasts, additional drone zone data, and more |
DroneCast App Pricing
| Pricing Model | Cost |
|---|---|
| App Cost (Free Version) | Free (ad-free) |
| Pro Version | $2.99/month or $26.99/year |
| In-App Purchases | None |
DroneCast provides a free version with essential weather and airspace information, while the Pro version unlocks additional features for more advanced flight planning, available for $2.99/month or $26.99/year.
6. Drone Assist
Drone Assist, developed by Altitude Angel, is a mobile app designed for efficient flight planning, safety checks, and airspace management. It features an interactive map that highlights no-fly zones, ground hazards, and NOTAMs, along with the ability to share flight plans to avoid conflicts. The app also offers approval services for restricted airspaces, supporting a variety of drone models. Available for free on both Android and iOS, it does require an internet connection and may not be compatible with all drone models.
Drone Assist App Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Platform | Android, iOS |
| App Size | Approximately 20-30 MB (varies by device and updates) |
| Supported Languages | English |
| Key Features | No-fly zones, ground hazards, NOTAMs, flight plan sharing, airspace approval |
| User Interface | Interactive map, easy navigation with clear visual indicators |
| Internet Dependency | Requires internet connection for real-time updates and flight planning |
| Multi-Drone Support | Compatible with a range of drone models, both hobbyist and commercial |
| Offline Capabilities | Limited offline functionality; most features need internet access |
Drone Assist App Pricing
| Pricing Model | Cost |
|---|---|
| App Cost (Free Version) | Free |
| In-App Purchases | None |
| Subscription/Pro Version | Not applicable (free version with all core features) |
Drone Assist is available for free on both Android and iOS. It does not have a paid version or in-app purchases, making it fully accessible without any cost. However, it does require an internet connection for most of its features.
7. Sun Surveyor (Sun & Moon)
SunSurveyor is an app designed for photographers, filmmakers, and architects to better understand natural light. It helps you accurately predict sunrise, sunset, and golden hour times for any location on Earth, on any given day. If you use a drone for photography, this app is a must-have. SunSurveyor also provides detailed information about the positions of the sun and moon, allowing users to make informed decisions for their projects and outdoor activities.
Sun Surveyor (Sun & Moon) App Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Platform | Android, iOS |
| App Size | Approximately 30-50 MB (varies by device and updates) |
| Supported Languages | English, with support for multiple languages in settings |
| Key Features | Sunrise and sunset times, golden hour predictions, moon phases, sun and moon positions, 3D map, AR mode |
| User Interface | Intuitive, user-friendly interface with easy navigation |
| Augmented Reality (AR) | Available in the Pro version for real-time sun position tracking |
| Offline Capabilities | Some basic features work offline, but full functionality requires an internet connection |
| Global Coverage | Available for any location on Earth |
Sun Surveyor (Sun & Moon) Pricing
| Pricing Model | Cost |
|---|---|
| Free Version | Free with basic features (sunrise, sunset, and moon phase data) |
| Pro Version | $7.99 USD (one-time purchase) for additional features like AR and 3D views |
| In-App Purchases | None |
Sun Surveyor offers a free version with basic features like sunrise, sunset, and moon phase data, while the Pro version provides access to advanced features, including augmented reality and 3D mapping, for a one-time cost of $7.99 USD.
8. Verifly
Insurance is a crucial part of modern life, but drone insurance often doesn’t fit the typical monthly premium model like car or home insurance. Verifly offers something different: on-demand insurance. Designed primarily for commercial drone operations, it’s ideal for flights that are infrequent, unpredictable, or too spaced out to justify full-time coverage. With Verifly, you only pay for the time you fly—simply log your flight start and finish times, and you’re covered. Rates start at around $10 per hour. Download the app below to learn more about the coverage details, with policies underwritten by Global Aerospace, Inc.
Verifly App Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Platform | Android, iOS |
| App Size | Approximately 20-30 MB (varies by device and updates) |
| Supported Languages | English |
| Insurance Type | On-demand, pay-per-hour coverage |
| Coverage Type | Liability, damage, and injury coverage for commercial drone flights |
| Policy Underwriting | Underwritten by Global Aerospace, Inc. |
| Flight Logging | Allows users to log start and finish times to determine coverage duration |
| Payment System | Pay-per-hour starting at $10 per hour |
| Global Coverage | Available in select regions, with global policies |
Verifly App Pricing
| Pricing Model | Cost |
|---|---|
| Pay-Per-Hour Insurance | Starts at $10 per hour |
| In-App Purchases | None |
| Subscription/Pro Version | Not applicable (pay-per-use pricing model) |
Verifly operates on a pay-per-hour model starting at $10 per hour. It doesn’t have a subscription model and is priced based on the time of your flight. The app is free to download for use.
9. Litchi for DJI drones (special consideration)
To fly your favorite DJI drones like the Mavic Pro, Spark, Phantom series, and more, you’ll need the official DJI GO, DJI GO 4, or DJI Fly apps. However, there are alternative apps that offer additional features, and one of the most popular is Litchi. Litchi for DJI Mavic, Phantom, Inspire, and Spark provides a similar experience to the official DJI apps but with a few unique enhancements. Notably, it offers waypoint flights and built-in VR/FPV functionality, making it a standout choice for drone enthusiasts looking for advanced features. It’s definitely worth considering for those who want more control and customization.
Litchi for DJI Drones App Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Platform | Android, iOS |
| App Size | Approximately 40-60 MB (varies by device and updates) |
| Supported Drones | DJI Mavic, Phantom, Inspire, Spark, and other DJI drones |
| Flight Modes | Waypoint Flight, Follow Me, Orbit, FPV/VR mode, Track, and more |
| Camera Control | Automated camera settings, tilt, and pan adjustments during flight |
| Mission Planning | Pre-flight mission planning with waypoint and flight path setup |
| Offline Capabilities | No internet required for waypoint flight after initial setup |
| Compatibility with VR | Built-in VR and FPV modes, compatible with VR goggles for immersive experience |
| GPS Integration | Precise GPS for waypoint and follow-me functionality |
| Flight Safety | Includes features like altitude limits, return-to-home, and fail-safes |
| User Interface | User-friendly interface with intuitive controls for flight planning and mission setup |
Litchi for DJI Drones Pricing
| Pricing Model | Cost |
|---|---|
| One-Time Purchase | $24.99 USD (one-time purchase) |
| In-App Purchases | None |
Litchi requires a one-time purchase of $24.99 USD, which gives you access to all its features, including waypoint flying, FPV, mission planning, and more. There are no recurring subscription fees, making it a cost-effective choice for advanced drone pilots looking for additional functionality beyond DJI’s native apps.
10. Google’s Wing Aviation OpenSky
OpenSky is a straightforward app designed to help you discover airspace restrictions and obtain LAANC authorization for flying in controlled airspace. While the initial version of the app offers a limited set of features, it provides the essential functionality to get you clearance to fly. At launch, we didn’t see any nearby drone or manned aircraft flights, nor could we confirm that our non-LAANC registered flights in OpenSky were visible to other apps or maps tracking flight locations.
If you’re not interested in the additional features offered by apps like Airmap and just need a quick way to get authorized to fly, OpenSky is a simple and effective tool for that purpose.
Google’s Wing Aviation OpenSky App Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Platform | Android, iOS |
| App Size | Approximately 20-30 MB (varies by device and updates) |
| Supported Languages | English |
| Airspace Authorization | LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability) integration |
| Flight Tracking | Does not provide flight tracking or visibility of nearby flights |
| Real-Time Notifications | Provides real-time authorization updates for controlled airspace |
| Flight Logging | Basic logging of flight times, but does not support extensive flight history or tracking |
| Flight Visibility | Does not share flight location with other apps or maps |
| User Interface | Simple, user-friendly interface for basic flight authorization and airspace information |
| Cross-App Integration | Limited integration with other flight tracking apps and systems |
Google’s Wing Aviation OpenSky Pricing
| Pricing Model | Cost |
|---|---|
| Free Access | Free to download and use with basic LAANC authorization functionality |
| In-App Purchases | None |
| Subscription | No subscription model; free to use all available features |
OpenSky is completely free to use, providing basic functionality for obtaining LAANC authorization for drone flights. There are no in-app purchases or subscription fees.
Conclusion: Top 10 Best Drone Apps for Android
The world of drone flying offers endless possibilities, and Android apps provide essential tools to enhance your flying experience. Whether you’re planning a flight, monitoring weather conditions, managing airspace, or controlling your drone in real time, there’s an app tailored to meet your needs. These top 10 apps cater to everyone, from hobbyists to professionals, offering both beginner-friendly and advanced features.
For scenic flights and photography, apps like Google Earth and SunSurveyor are invaluable for planning and capturing the perfect shots. To stay compliant with regulations, Airmap and B4UFLY provide real-time airspace data and notifications, ensuring you’re always flying in safe zones. For advanced control, Litchi and DroneAssist offer powerful mission planning and waypoint functions.
When it comes to safety and compliance, apps like DroneCast and Verifly provide weather updates, insurance options, and essential airspace information. For quick flight authorizations, OpenSky is a reliable tool for obtaining LAANC clearance.
The right app for you will depend on your specific needs, whether it’s for professional use, aerial photography, or basic flight management. By using these tools, you’ll not only improve the safety and efficiency of your flights but also expand your drone’s potential for exciting new experiences.