UA did this last year too.
It honestly doesnt bother me. These people whomever they are are giving AA much more money for the same status as I am. So if it helps the airline and costs me an upgrade or two (not my main focus of status) I am ok with it.
Seriously. Other than self employed business travelers does any FT member pay 10,000 out of their own pocket for only PLAT? I got mine for this year for 1/10 that.