Sharp has began sample deliveries of IGZO LCD panels, the first to support 4K2K (3,840 x 2,160, 282 ppi) resolution in a 15.6-inch notebook PC. Deliveries began in September 2013. Shap plans to start production at its Kameyama Plant No. 2 from February 2014.

Sharp has become the first company to realize 4K2K resolution for LCD panels used in notebook PCs. This was made possible by employing IGZO technology, which improves light transmission and enables thin-film transistors to be more compact. Improved light transmission translates into a reduction in electricity consumption, as does IGZO technology's ability to suppress the liquid crystal driving current when a static image is displayed. This serves to extend the battery life of a notebook PC. IGZO technology is also compatible with touch-panel designs supporting pen-based input.

Utilizing the high-resolution display and energy-saving characteristics of IGZO LCD panels, Sharp plans to extend the application of this technology into devices such as smartphones, tablet PCs, notebook PCs, and 4K displays.

Sharp is already mass producing 15.6-inch IGZO panels with a resolution of 3,200 x 1,800, 235 ppi.