Chinese-based Huawei has confirmed it will not sell its “iPhone killer” – the new Mate 20 series – in the United States, following allegations of national security risks.
Speaking to Business Insider, Huawei confirms the Mate 20 and Mate 20 Pro won’t launch in the US, warning international models may list online on e-commerce retailers:
“We are not planning to sell the Mate 20 Series in the US”
“While international variants of the Mate 20 Series may be available on some US online retail sites, we encourage individuals to carefully read the details about the warranty and network compatibility before purchasing.”
Despite this, the Chinese giant will reportedly bring its new smartwatch – the Watch GT – to America, with pricing and availability to be confirmed.
Currently ranked the world’s second largest smartphone vendor (beating Apple), Huawei launched the Mate 20 in London early October. According to IDC, Huawei boasts a 15.8% market share of the global smartphone market.
Early this year, intelligence chiefs from the NSA, FBI and CIA offered warnings against Huawei services and products, asserting they present national security risks.
Reports claim the US government has pressured carriers not to sell Chinese phones, influencing Huawei’s decision to forgo launching the Mate 20 series in America.
In January, AT&T cancelled its deal to carry Huawei’s Mate 10 Pro, with Verizon and Best Buy also reportedly dropping Huawei phones too.