I think it's obvious that Apple is moving more towards consumers and further away from the "pro" demographic. However, I'm not sure why so many are upset with the newest update.
For one, they didn't eliminate the matte screen completely. Anyone can still go to the Apple store and purchase a 17" MBP with a matte screen and slightly updated internals. And, they didn't replace the entire CD line with glossy. All three original matte options are still there.
Personally, I prefer matte screens too. However, I also have a matte external display at home to do my serious video and photo editing (I work at an ABC-affiliate station and produce 5 HD video segments each week, so color accuracy is very important for me...). And, I'm happy with the new 9600 card.
While I think that Apple should not alienate the "pro" crowd, don't forget that the actual demographic is very small. How many people who own MBPs would actually be able to tell the color difference between matte and glossy? While many consider themselves "pro," a much fewer number of those people are actually using the computer for professional quality work. I have a feeling that a lot of the people purchasing MBPs are using them for note-taking in class and for playing the occasional game.
I can see designers and video professionals upset about the switch in screens, but I have a feeling that a lot of the people sounding off on these forums do not use the MBP for "pro" work. They just hear someone legitimately complain and they take on the argument for themselves.
Do I think that Apple is making a mistake by alienating the demographic that jump-started the company and propelled it into mainstream success? Yes. But, at least they didn't completely remove the matte option from the MBP table.
The way I see it, if you're in the market for a new MBP and you don't like the new glossy screen, either buy the 17" glossy or purchase a new external display.
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