Before CES 2011 started, we wrote about Sphero, a robotic ball developed by Boulder, Colo., start-up Orbotix. The idea is to control the ball with your smartphone for games and other applications. It looked like a fun idea, so we decided to stop by the company's booth to have a look.
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On display was an early prototype of the Sphero.
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Here is what the Sphero looks like today, along with the remote control displayed on the iPhone.
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An employee explains how the Sphero works to CES goers.
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The control interface on the iPad. The Sphero is designed to be used with iOS and Android games, and the API is open to developers.
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Two Sphero balls rolling around on the CES floor. One example given by Orbotix of the Sphero's use was solving a maze by rolling the Sphero around on the floor. One idea overheard at CES was developing a Bocci ball game.