Apple nets $345 million in iPod sales; 141% increase

“Net sales of peripherals and other hardware rose $384 million or 57% during 2003 compared 2002, which follows a $287 million or 74% increase in 2002 as compared to 2001.

The current year increase was primarily driven by the $202 million, or 141%, year-over-year increase in iPod net sales to $345 million. All of the Company’s operating segments experienced substantial increases in iPod net sales and unit sales during 2003.

iPod sales during 2003 were favorably affected by the introduction of substantially redesigned new models, which are compatible with both Macintosh and Windows operating systems and by the Company’s introduction of its iTunes Music Store for the Macintosh operating system in April 2003. The Company’s iPod digital music player is sold by a variety of resellers, many of which do not currently market the Company’s Macintosh systems.