As quickly as it disappeared, the matte (or rather, "anti-glare") screen option has returned to the 15-inch MacBook Pro. Apple quietly slid the option back in as a $50 add-on when ordering a new machine through the online store after almost a year of going glossy-only.

Apple announced its plans to ditch the matte display for the 15-inch MacBook Pro line during the October 2008 Notebook media event in Cupertino. The controversial decision incensed MacBook Pro owners from all walks of life, though Apple argued that the glossy display had deeper blacks and showed more vivid colors. Even designers were somewhat split on whether this was a good decision--we hosted a minor debate between our own two designers in the Ars MacBook Pro review. Some users never quite accepted the change, however, insisting that Apple should bring the matte option back.

Well, as of this morning, those users can sleep easy once again. As noted by AppleInsider, the decision to extend antiglare options has been rumored since July. The 17-inch MacBook Pro has always had both options, of course, and the (now-Pro) 13-inch MacBook remains glossy-only. Are you one of the people who will be celebrating the return of matte antiglare? (Click through for the poll.)

Are you happy with Apple's concession to add a matte option to the 15-inch MBP?(surveys)