Wow. This is TERRIBLE for 2Ps. E+ is the ONLY reason I fly United, and with no guarantee of getting a seat there makes me reconsider sticking with United. The worst part is now there is no guarantee my companion and I will get seats next to each other, especially on long haul flights..
They should have just set aside a few rows for 1P+ until 24 hours in advance. That way 2Ps can reserve in advance, and last minute 1P+ travelers can still find space in E+.