Sharp AQUOS remote control

Sharp is a historic Japanese electronics brand founded in 1912 by Tokuji Hayakawa. The AQUOS brand, introduced in 2001, is specifically designated for its premium line of LCD televisions and related equipment. Sharp's journey began with the invention of the 'Ever-Sharp' mechanical pencil, from which the company took its name, before transitioning into pioneering radio and television manufacturing in Japan.

In 2016, Sharp Corporation underwent a significant transformation when it was acquired by the Taiwan-based manufacturing giant Foxconn (Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.). This acquisition marked the first time a major Japanese electronics firm was taken over by a foreign entity. While the brand remains deeply rooted in its Japanese heritage and maintains its headquarters in Sakai, Osaka, its global operations and supply chains are now under Taiwanese ownership.

Manufacturing for Sharp products, including remote controls and televisions, occurs in multiple locations worldwide to serve different regional markets. Key production facilities are located in Japan, China, Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia. For several years (2015-2019), the Sharp brand name was licensed to Hisense in North America, but Sharp/Foxconn has since regained control of the brand in that region.