I don't really think that the radios will change... i'm not sure if i would like the radio to beinside the RC.. it seems like it wouldnt get reception, but if it does and it works consistantly then i would defiently prefer that. As far as USB programming Parallax has done it and I have a feeling that IFI is going to follow suit..
http://www.parallax.com/detail.asp?product_id=28850
Hopefully IFI will supprise us this year