CES: Sharp's Igzo semiconductors promise less power-hungry displays

LAS VEGAS: Sharp has unveiled a line of displays and mobile devices based on a novel semiconductor material, which it claims will make devices more power efficient.

The company said that the platform, dubbed Igzo, uses a combination of materials which are more scalable and efficient than traditional silicon semiconductors. Based on a combination of idium, gallium, zinc and oxygen, the semiconductors promise to make devices more efficient and improve battery life.

Early deployments of Igzo include a handful television models as well as mobile handsets and tablets. The company said that it has already released some handsets in Japan and plans to introduce further models in the country throughout the year.

"This is a leading display technology of this decade," proclaimed Kozo Takahashi, executive vice president of marketing at Sharp Electronics.

"We are excited to be the first company to mass produce Igzo and for its future potential."

The Igzo range is one of several projects Sharp is counting on to power its upcoming generation of displays. The company is also looking to further its hold on the plus-sized television market.

Sharp said that over the course of 2013 it will add new models to its Aquos lineup including a line of 80in and 90in sets.

Sharp president John Herrington said that since 2011, revenues from the 60in and higher category have grown from four percent of sales to more than 20 percent of all revenues in the market.

"As we look to 2013, we expect to see greater than 40 percent growth in the 60in and above category," Herrington told reporters.

"Sharp will continue to lead that growth."