Apple Inc reported surging profits yesterday amid booming demand for its latest iPhone models and sales breakthroughs in China.

Profits rose 33 percent in the January-March period from the same quarter a year earlier to US$13.6 billion. Revenue was up 27 percent to US$58 billion, Apple said.

Sales of iPhones in China exceeded US sales for the first time, the company said, citing seasonal factors including Chinese New Year. China revenue jumped 71 percent to US$16.8 billion.

Sales of iPhones, as measured in units, were up 40 percent to 61.2 million worldwide.

Apple raised its forecasts for later this year, reflecting the popularity of the new iPhone 6 models and the company’s optimism for the Apple Watch, which hit stores last week.

- dpa