Huawei dangles US$150 carrot for US Mate 10 Pro launch

Huawei looks to be trying everything it can to get a foothold in the US consumer market with the launch of its first major handset in the country. After its failure to get vital carrier support for the launch of the Mate 10 Pro thanks to political pressure, the company is dangling a $150 gift card for customers who purchase the unlocked version of the flagship device. Retail partners for the launch include Amazon, Best Buy, Newegg, B&H and Microsoft.

The Huawei Mate 10 Pro is priced at US$799, which, while steep, is normal territory for a high-end device today. The US$150 gift card will be offered by each retailer for use at the store where it is purchased from. Although not a discount, it certainly helps to make the device more attractive to customers who might otherwise find themselves sitting on the fence. The offer is only valid during the pre-order period that started today and runs through to February 17, which is the day before the device ships.

US spy agencies have warned government departments not to purchase Huawei products as their has been evidence in the past that the company may have links to the Chinese government and  Whether that makes a dent participated in espionage. It remains to be seen whether that sentiment puts a dent in Huawei's US smartphone market ambitions.

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