Apple sets iPhone sales record

Technology giant says it has sold more than 13 million iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus models since launch.

Apple said on September 28, 2015 it sold 13 million of its new iPhones over the weekend, in a record-breaking launch for the newest models of its iconic smartphone.

Technology giant Apple said it has sold more than 13 million iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus models since their launch, up 30 per cent from last year’s total and a record for the company.

The figures mark a three-day sales record for the company, which CEO Tim Cook has described as “phenomenal.”

“Sales for iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus have been phenomenal, blowing past any previous first weekend sales results in Apple’s history,” said Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO.

“Customers’ feedback is incredible and they are loving 3D Touch and Live Photos, and we can’t wait to bring iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus to customers in even more countries on 9 October.”

Apple didn’t break down the sales by model or by region.

Analysts, many of whom had projected sales between 12 million and 13 million, had noted that the phone’s availability in China from the launch would likely boost sales over the first weekend.

Mizuho Securities USA analyst Abhey Lamba said the jump from last year’s initial total of 10 million was “clearly impressive” but reflected the greater initial distribution.

“Apple made its new phone available in 12 regions this time, including fast-growing China, versus 10 a year ago,” the analyst said.

Apple said that the latest versions of the iPhone would be available in more than 40 additional countries beginning October 9 and more than 130 countries by year’s end.

Mr Lamba said the expanded distribution “could help the company get past the tough compare for the December quarter, but the entire 6s cycle will likely have a tough time competing against tough compares,” which could become an issue in the March quarter.

Apple’s iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus are available in gold, silver, space grey and the new rose gold metallic finishes for a recommended retail price of $1,079 for the 16GB model, $1,229 for the 64GB model and $1,379 for the 128GB model.

The new devices are available in Australia through Telstra, Optus, Vodafone and additional carriers, as well as select Apple Authorised Resellers.

Shares of Apple dropped 1.2 per cent in morning trading amid a broader market sell-off.

With Dow Jones newswires.