Microsoft is to slowly phase out all glossy Xbox 360 S models and replace them in store with the slightly less glamorous-looking - but also less prone to picking up dust - matte consoles.

Via his official blog, Xbox LIVE’s Major Nelson confirms the news.

"The consoles will start to arrive in stores over the coming weeks, so if you really love the idea of a glossy console don't wait much longer," reads the statement.

Glossy Xbox 360s may still make it onto the shelves in the form of Limited Edition consoles, says Major, but all new standard SKUs will now sport a matte finish.

Microsoft's decision to phase out all shiny consoles coincides with the release of the new 250GB matte Xbox 360, shown below, which is due to launch on September 20, 2011.