At the 2012 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, it's not just about home entertainment gear. So-called appcessories—peripherals you can attach to mobile devices for fun and play on the run—are also making news at the show.

The Orbotix Sphero is the robotic ball you control with your smart phone or tablet computer. Swipe your finger on your mobile device's touch-sensitive screen and the ball rolls along the floor as you direct it. (Amusing entertainment for feline companions, by the way.)

But the $130 device also contain sensors that allow the robotic ball to control your device as well. Hold it in your hand and it can be used much like a floating trackball to move a video game app's spaceship.

Watch Consumer Reports video of the Orbotix Sphero in action at 2012 CES. And keep up with Consumer Reports expert coverage of the CES trade show.