As others have noted here, I don't see any "benefit" in the change for me. That said, I agree that in the end UA is a business and these changes appear to be aimed at remaining profitable and integrating two sets of elites that are not defined on the same parameters.

Fortunately, they have done this at a point in time that fits well with my opportunity to "try out" 1K status as a result of the DEQM/S promo last year--I had been a 1P and siezed the opportunity to do a few segment runs to lock up 1K so I could compare it side-by-side with AA EXP. I've already locked up EXP for next year--along with an anticipated decline in travel for next year, I think this is the final data point in my decision to stay with AA.

Barring another DEQM/S promo from UA, I've flown enough already to end up a 1P (1P- ?) next year. Assuming AA does not follow suit on elite qualification (I am primarily a segment qualifier due to most travel being domestic and under 1K miles/segment), this seems the best fit--UDU as EXP and as 1P (though probably not much upgrade success as a 1P).

cheers!