English: Robots are roaming the aisles of the International Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. In the Eureka Park Tech Zone, where startups showcase their products, Palo Alto-based Robotex is demonstrating a robot that runs off a docked iOS device such as an iPad, iPhone or iPod touch. The blue and black Avatar robot was zipping around the aisles on its treads causing a few surprised leaps from attendees. The product will be available later this year with prices starting at $299.

Standing guard behind the consumer model was a row of beefier-looking robots, including Robotex Avatar tactical and security robots. Designed for use by security, law enforcement and homeland security teams, these robots are by no means toys.

The company doesn't list pricing for the models, but Robotex business development manager Ben Winter said that base models start at around $12,500, though accessories such as cameras and sensors typically push the average purchase price to about $17,000. Models have been in market for more than 2 years.