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Samsung Electronics has said it expects its profit for the first three months of the year to almost double as its smartphone sales continue to grow. The company said it expects an operating profit 5.8tn won ($5.1bn; �3.2bn) for the period. The success of Samsung's Galaxy range has seen it become the world's biggest-selling smartphone maker. Analysts said the firm had benefited from keeping its margins healthy, despite growing competition. "There was a big surprise in profit, while revenue was in line, which suggests a stronger-than-expected profit margin from the handset division thanks to robust sales of high-end models like the Galaxy S and Note," said Choi D-Yeon of LIG Investment & Securities. "Handset margins are estimated to have topped 20% and profits from the division also topped 4tn won." The company will release its full earnings report on 27 April.