Apple Inc. reports record quarterly earnings

Apple Inc. recorded its most profitable quarter ever over the holidays.

The technology giant rolled out its iPhone in new markets, including China and South Korea.

Earnings were $3.4 billion US, or $3.67a share, in the three months ending in December, compared with $2.3 billion, or $2.50 per share in the same period a year earlier. Revenues were $15.68 billion, compared with $14.96.

Apple doubled sales of its iPhone to 8.7 million units, compared to the period a year earlier.

The earnings announcement, as positive as it was, might still be eclipsed by Apple's announcement of its new tablet computer, expected on Wednesday.

The company offered no clues about what it plans to unveil Wednesday in San Francisco although CEO Steve Jobs indicated that investors should expect a significant event.

"The new products we are planning to release this year are very strong, starting this week with a major new product that we're really excited about," he said in a statement.

There's been intense speculation that the new device will rival the success Apple has had with its iPod and iTunes, which revolutionized how people listen to music.