A handheld device and methods of operation. The device includes a housing and a display. A device may include a MEMS inertial sensor disposed within the housing, wherein the MEMS inertial sensor is configured to sense a change in spatial orientation when the user reorients the handheld device. A system may include a processor disposed within the housing and coupled to the MEMS inertial sensor and to the display, wherein the processor is programmed to receive the change in spatial orientation of the handheld device, and wherein the processor is programmed output an indication of the change in spatial orientation on the display. A computer implemented method for a handheld computer system for determining spatial orientation is also disclosed.