RIM Rejoices

In contrast, analysts had forecast earnings of 72 cents a share in the current quarter on sales of $636.4 million. In the same quarter a year ago, RIM earned $111.1 million, or 56 cents a share, on sales of $490.1 million.

RIM's earnings fell in the just-completed quarter as it revved up its marketing and research-and-development spending. Year-over-year R&D expenses jumped 49% to $51.5 million, while marketing and administrative expenses rose 71% to $107.3 million.

The company has been rolling out a slew of new deals with cell phone carriers and is in the midst of developing a series of new products, company executives said on conference call.

"We're investing in a lot of areas," Balsillie said. "That's what drives the top line."