SEOUL, April 7 -- Tech giant Samsung Electronics today estimated its first quarter profit had soared 755 per cent annually to a record high of 57.2 trillion won (RM150 billion), driven by strong sales of chips crucial for AI.

The South Korean firm also said in a regulatory filing that its sales were expected to reach 133 trillion won in the three months to the end of March, a 68 per cent increase compared to the same period last year.

Samsung has emerged as a key player-along with fellow South Korean firm SK hynix-in the supply of high-performing chips in high demand from companies racing to keep up with the fast-evolving AI industry.

"Samsung Electronics achieved its highest-ever results, driven by rising revenue and profits in its me...