Microsoft records 31% profit increase

Software giant Microsoft has recorded a 31% increase in quarterly profit, although sales of the Windows operating system have continued to fall.

The result, which was above analysts’ expectations, reveals a substantial increase in revenue for the company’s interactive division, which manages the Xbox 360 game console.

Total profit was $US5.2 billion in the third quarter, compared to $US4 billion in the previous corresponding quarter. Sales increased by 13% to $US16.4 billion.

“We delivered strong financial results despite a mixed PC environment, which demonstrates the strength and breadth of our businesses,” chief financial officer Peter Klein said in a statement. “Consumers are purchasing Office 2010, Xbox and Kinect at tremendous rates, and businesses of all sizes are purchasing Microsoft platforms and applications.”

Many analysts pointed out the sales results were better than expected, especially as the company is suffering from falling PC sales.