Sony Ericsson reports sharp rise in profits due to 3G demand

Mobile phone manufacturer Sony Ericsson http://www.sonyericsson.com has reported a dramatic rise in both sales and profits in the fourth quarter. Its 3G handsets have led demand, the company say. However, profits were less than analysts were originally expecting with increased pressure on margins. Sales for 2004 increased to 6,525 million euros, a rise of 39.6 per cent from the previous year. The company also managed to overturn a net income loss of 86 million euros in 2003 to post a profit of 316 million euros at the end of 2004. http://www.sonyericsson.com/spg.jsp?cc=global&lc=en&ver=4001&template=pc1_1_1&zone=pc&lm=pc1&prid=2731