Apple Computer may have only about 3% of the global computer market, but it seems that the firm dominates MP3 player sales in the U.S., according to a recent report from NPD Group.

Apple Computer's iPod Shuffle has expanded its share of the U.S. flash player MP3 market, to 58% percent in March, up from 43% in February, according to research firm NPD. Apple's Chief Financial Officer Peter Oppenheimer noted recently that the company commanded 90% of hard disk drive-based MP3 players and its iTunes Music Store share is about 70%.

?Because of its profits, and the steady release of new products, Apple has been generating buzz for quite a nice stretch of time?They are savvy about keeping that attention going,?said IDC analyst Roger Kay.

?Apple is firing on all cylinders and we have some incredible new products in the pipeline for the coming year,?said Apple CEO Steve Jobs in a recent statement.

With the growing use of the iPod Shuffle, and marketing efforts focused on new initiatives, it is possible that Apple will continue its profit climb, claims News Factor Network.

• News Factor Network: Apple Grabs More of Flash Market.