Apple Defies Slump

Defying analysts’ predictions and shareholders’ worries about the health of its CEO, Apple raked in an unexpected $1.21 billion in net income last quarter, up 15 percent. The iPhone led the charge: The company sold 3.79 million units, double the amount from the year earlier. New versions of the iPod also boosted profits, though sales of Macs dipped slightly. Investors expect Apple to introduce new inventory in June to keep sales up. A new iPhone, an iPod Touch media player with a larger screen, and a tablet computer are among the possible new products. Last quarter, health problems forced CEO Steve Jobs to step back from his usual day-to-day guidance of Apple, leaving some worried about its future.