Sharp says small, mid-size panel orders lower than expected

Japan's Sharp Corp <6753.T> said orders for small and medium size panels for smartphones came in below expectations. But television sales improved, a company executive said on Friday.

Sharp reported a rebound to an operating profit in the third quarter, improving the bailed-out consumer electronics maker's chances of convincing lenders and shareholders that it is a viable company.

(Reporting by Reiji Murai)