Apple posted record iPhone sales on Tuesday night, returning the world's largest public company to growth after last year's uncharacteristic fall in revenues.

High demand for the new iPhone 7 model released in September meant Apple sold 78.3m iPhones in the crucial Christmas quarter that comes after the release of its latest products.

While a slower rate of growth than the technology giant has enjoyed in past years, it was a welcome rebound after three consecutive quarters of decline. Falling sales of the iPhone and iPad, and the lack of a breakthrough new product, have stymied Apple in recent months and last year it posted its first fall in annual profit in 15 years.