Apple readies expanded iPhone 4S launch

The launch of the iPhone 4S was one of Apple's most succesful product releases ever, shifting upwards of four million units in its first 72 hours on the market.

The biggest numbers, however, may be yet to come. Apple has opened up pre-orders for the iPhone in nearly two dozen additional countries, kicking off a full-scale international rollout for the handset.

Among the 22 countries are Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway, Belgium, Spain and Mexico. The update builds on an initial rollout which included the US, UK, Germany and Japan. If the initial release is any indication, Apple will continue to pad out its already solid sales figures despite a lukewarm reception from critics.

The iPhone 4S has been panned for its lack of design updates and 4G connectivity, but tear-down studies have shown a number of significant hardware updates to the processor and memory level.

Additionally, the handset supports Apple's iOS 5 firmware update and the Siri voice control platform. An early review by V3 noted the improved processor and camera harware.