A few weeks ago you may have heard that Microsoft began a pilot program to test a new retail model for the Xbox 360. The program, which we have been testing at Microsoft Stores in the U.S., offers customers the chance to purchase a 4GB Xbox 360 with Kinect and a two-year LIVE subscription with a low upfront cost of $99, and 24 months of Xbox LIVE Gold at $14.99 per month.

Today, I’m happy to announce that we’re expanding the pilot to all U.S. Best Buy stores and select GameStop locations later this month. This next phase of the pilot program will be limited in terms of both timing and the number of units available—we’re excited to forge new ground and explore a new retail model for Xbox 360, but also want to emphasize that this is a pilot period for the program.

Call your local Best Buy, GameStop or Microsoft Store if you’d like more information about how and where to purchase.