Microsoft beat expectations in the first quarter of 2012.

Even though Microsoft’s entertainment division which includes the Xbox feel in profits by 16%, Windows Sales rose 4% against a forcast of a 4% reduction making the companies overall profits rise by a total of 6%.

Microsoft stated its business division saw revenues increase by 9% “reflecting the continued strength of Office 2010″.

After-hours trading in New York saw Microsoft shares rise by 3%.

Steve Ballmer Microsoft’s chief executive said ”We’re driving toward exciting launches across the entire company, while delivering strong financial results,”

“With the upcoming release of new Windows 8 PCs and tablets, the next version of Office, and a wide array of products and services for the enterprise and consumers, we will be delivering exceptional value to all our customers in the year ahead.”