Apple on Top Again, and Gaining

Apple's numbers are in, and industry analysts are abuzz with the untouchable company's higher-than-expected profits. The Cupertino, California-based firm surged ahead of other technology heavyweights, such as Google, posting a 47 percent increase in profits. The numbers are mostly owing to sales of iPhones and Macintosh computers, which rose 7 and 17 percent, respectively. In the past, Apple has had a hard time keeping up with demand for these products. The company's overall profit hit a record $1.67 billion, which caused its share price to jump 6 percent in after-hours trading. Just in time for the holiday season, Apple is also expected to announce updates to its product line in the upcoming weeks.