10m iPhones sold in first weekend

Apple says it has sold more than 10m iPhones in the first weekend after its new models went on sale on Friday, underscoring strong demand for phones with larger displays.

Chief executive Tim Cook said the company could have sold even more if supplies had been available.

Analysts had estimated first-weekend sales of up to 10m iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus models, based on record first-day pre-orders.

The phones, which went on sale in 10 countries, drew more than 4m pre-orders on September 12, far surpassing the 2m orders for the iPhone 5 two years ago.

Apple shares were up 0.15% to $101.11 on the Nasdaq last night.

“While our team managed the manufacturing ramp better than ever before, we could have sold many more iPhones with greater supply and we are working hard to fill orders as quickly as possible,” Cook said in a statement.

Last year, Apple sold 9m iPhone 5S and 5C models in 11 countries, including China, in the first weekend they were available.

Sales of the latest models in China, the largest smartphone market, have been delayed by regulatory issues.

Apple sold 5m iPhone 5 handsets, 4m iPhone 4S models, and 1.7m iPhone 4 units during the first weekend.

The company last week said many US customers would have to wait until next month for their new iPhones due to the demand.

The new iPhones will be available in 20 more countries, including Ireland, this Friday, September 26.