Apple unveils record iPhone sales

Technology giant Apple last night reported a fourth-quarter profit of $7.5 billion (£4.6bn), beating analysts’ expectations.But that compared to income of $8.2bn, or $8.67 per share, last year.

Sales of Apples flagship iPhones and iPads have rocketed. Picture: Getty

The earnings were helped by sales of 33.8 million iPhones, including models of the new iPhone 5s and iPhone 5c.

The company said it sold 14.1 million iPads during the quarter, up very slightly from 14 million a year ago.

However, while still extremely profitable, the company ended its financial year with its first annual decline in earnings in 11 years.