Sharp's new smartphone, the AQUOS R11, goes on sale through SoftBank on July 9, 2026. It is a high-end model that pairs a Leica-tuned triple camera, a glowing rear accent called "Akarium," and the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 chip. The SoftBank version costs 156,960 yen for the 12GB / 256GB configuration. Here are the key points, from the cameras and core performance to the purchase programs.

A Leica-Tuned Triple Camera and the Glowing "Akarium"

The centerpiece of the AQUOS R11 is its Leica-tuned triple rear camera. It combines a roughly 50.3-megapixel main camera, a roughly 50.3-megapixel wide-angle camera, and a roughly 38.5-megapixel telephoto camera, with the telephoto lens supported by AI-based image processing. The front-facing sub camera is also high-resolution at about 50.3 megapixels, and video can be recorded at up to 4K (3840 x 2160). The design leans on a telephoto reach that lets you frame subjects without worrying about distance, along with the color character that comes from Leica tuning.

A visual signature is the "Akarium," a glowing line set around the circular camera bump on the back. It lights up in response to incoming calls and notifications, giving the phone an identity that is recognizable from the rear alone. Two colors are offered: Navy and Ivory.

Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 and a 6.5-Inch Pro IGZO OLED

At its core is Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8s Gen 4. It uses a hexacore layout that includes a 3.2GHz cluster, and it runs Android 16. Memory is 12GB and storage is 256GB, with no support for external memory such as microSD.

The display is a roughly 6.5-inch Pro IGZO OLED panel at Full HD+ resolution (2340 x 1080). The battery capacity is 5,100mAh, and it charges in about 90 minutes with a USB Type-C PD-compatible AC adapter. The body measures about 74 x 156 x 8.9 mm and weighs about 195 grams, keeping it manageable for a device in the 6.5-inch class.

Starlink Direct Support and Rugged Durability

For connectivity, the phone supports 5G SA (standalone) and can use SoftBank Starlink Direct, which links directly to a satellite even in out-of-range areas. Outdoors, in places where SoftBank's network does not reach, it keeps communication options such as SMS and messaging available. It supports both nanoSIM and eSIM, and it works with Osaifu-Keitai.

On the wireless side, it supports Wi-Fi 7 (IEEE 802.11be) and Bluetooth 6.0, along with codecs such as LDAC and aptX Adaptive and Hi-Res audio playback. Biometric options include both fingerprint and face recognition. Water resistance is rated IPX5 / IPX8 / IPX9, dust resistance is IP6X, and shock resistance conforms to MIL-STD-810G, a U.S. Department of Defense procurement standard. It is a rugged build designed for everything from everyday use to the outdoors.

Price, the "Shin Toku Suru Support+" Program, and the Debut Campaign

The SoftBank version is priced at 156,960 yen. Buyers can use the "Shin Toku Suru Support+" program: purchase the device on a 48-payment plan, apply to use the benefit in the 13th or 25th month, and return the device, and the remaining payments are waived. For example, if you switch from another carrier (MNP), choose the 48-payment plan, apply for the benefit in the 25th month, and complete the return and appraisal by the end of the following month, the total of the installment payments for the two years (months 1 through 24) comes to 83,760 yen. If you do not buy your next device from SoftBank, a benefit usage fee of 22,000 yen applies.

To mark the launch, SoftBank is also running the "AQUOS R11 Debut Campaign." Buy the phone and apply, and you receive 10,000 yen worth of PayPay Points; the period runs through August 20. Note that the application requires the purchased AQUOS R11 itself, so you cannot apply if the device does not arrive within the campaign period.

Summary

The AQUOS R11 is Sharp's high-end smartphone, equipped with a Leica-tuned triple camera, the glowing "Akarium," and the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4. It covers a full set of dependable everyday features, including a roughly 6.5-inch Pro IGZO OLED, a 5,100mAh battery, Starlink Direct support, and MIL-STD-810G-grade durability. It launches through SoftBank on July 9 at 156,960 yen for the 12GB / 256GB configuration. With the "Shin Toku Suru Support+" program and the debut campaign on offer, anyone considering a purchase, including a carrier switch, will want to check the details.