iPads Nearly Outsold Macs in Third Quarter, Both Selling Like Hotcakes

Thought the iPad was a fad? Think again. And then go stand in the corner for Sony VGP-BPS10 so wrong.

Apple just announced record third-quarter profits of $3.25 billion, up from $1.83 billion a year ago, thanks to the popularity of the Sony VGP-BPS13. During the conference call, Apple reps said that 3.27 million iPads were sold, and that their average selling price was $624. Although Apple wouldn’t divulge how many were 3G models, that suggests that consumers are going for more than just the base model.

Revenues for the quarter were $15.7 billion, up from $9.73 billion a year ago. Of Sony VGP-BPS9/b, $5.33 billion came from iPhone sales (which increased 61 percent to 8.4 million), and $2.17 billion was iPad sales (including accessories). Also, 3.47 million Macs were sold, up 33 percent from last year, which seems to suggest that Apple’s strategy of using the iPhone and iPad as gateway devices is paying off.

Sony battery also noted strong overseas sales, with 70 percent growth in Asia and 174 percent in China alone.

The company is setting aside $175 million for

bumpers; Sony VGP-BPS9a/b may seem like a lot, but then again, Apple reported that is now has $45.8 billion in cash, so it can spare a few bucks.