TUNGSRAM was founded in 1896. The TUNGSRAM trade mark was registered in 1909. The word "TUNGSRAM" is originated from the English and German names of tungsten (TUNGSten + wolfRAM). With this name the Company wanted to emphasize that it was the owner of the tungsten lamp patent granted first in the world and the fact that it engaged itself with the lighting business.

On 15 November 1989, General Electric announced its largest investment after World War II in Hungary by purchasing 50% plus one share of the equity of Tungsram Rt. Ever since then, GE has been investing hundred millions of dollars in Hungary in production, technology, environment protection, training – in the Lighting business and in other businesses as well.