Apple's record-breaking iPhone tops 9 million sales

Apple has sold a record-breaking nine million new iPhone 5s and iPhone 5c models, just three days after the launch of the new iPhones on September 20.

In addition, Cupertino says more than 200 million iOS devices are now running the completely redesigned iOS 7, making it the fastest software upgrade in history.

CEO Tim Cook says demand for iPhone 5s in particular has exceeded the initial supply, and many online orders are scheduled to be shipped in the coming weeks.

Both iPhone 5s and iPhone 5c are available in the US, Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, Puerto Rico, Singapore and the UK.

“This is our best iPhone launch yet―more than nine million new iPhones sold―a new record for first weekend sales,” Cook said.

“The demand for the new iPhones has been incredible, and while we’ve sold out of our initial supply of iPhone 5s, stores continue to receive new iPhone shipments regularly.

"We appreciate everyone’s patience and are working hard to build enough new iPhones for everyone.”

Labelled as a “forward thinking” iPhone, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing Philip Schiller claims the iPhone 5s “sets a new standard for smartphones.”

The iPhone 5C however, Apple’s lower-end smartphone, is available within 24 hours after times had dropped to between three to seven working days.