iPhone 5 sells 5m units despite shortage

Apple’s shiny new iPhone 5 has sold 5m units since its launch on Friday September 21st.

Specifically, it hit that sales milestone after just three days on the market. It is currently available in the UK, US, France, Germany, Canada, Australia, Hong Kong, Singapore and Japan.

In addition, in excess of 100m iOS devices have been updated to the newest iOS 6 software

"Demand for iPhone 5 has been incredible and we are working hard to get an iPhone 5 into the hands of every customer who wants one as quickly as possible," Apple’s CEO Tim Cook insisted.

"While we have sold out of our initial supply, stores continue to receive iPhone 5 shipments regularly and customers can continue to order online and receive an estimated delivery date. We appreciate everyone’s patience and are working hard to build enough iPhone 5s for everyone."

The numbers come despite widespread shortages of certain SKUs, most notably of the entry-level 16GB SKU that has left many customers in the UK facing a significant wait to get their hands on the phone.

Demand for iPhone 5 exceeded the initial supply and while the majority of pre-orders have been shipped to customers, many are scheduled to be shipped in October,” the company added.