TechCrunch Minute: The iPad was the surprising star of Apple’s sales numbers

Comment,For once, the iPad was the highlight of Apple’s latest sales numbers.,The company said in its third quarter earnings report that iPad sales increased year-over-year, from $5.8 billion to $7.2 billion. The reason for that growth is probably new versions of the iPad Air and iPad Pro, which were announced in May. Turns out that if Apple actually invests in iPads, they sell.,In contrast, global iPhone sales were down for the second quarter in a row, falling to $39.3 billion. As you can tell by comparing those numbers, smartphones are still a lot more important to Apple’s bottom line.,So why are iPhone sales down? Apple’s biggest challenge seems to be in China, which is its third largest market, and a country where iPhones face growing competition from Chinese companies like Huawei. Apple has responded to that competition by aggressively cutting prices, which resulted in strong sales in May.,Hit play to learn more, then let us know what you think in the comments!