PlusPoints are a strict improvement over the current system, offering more flexibility than RPU and GPU and also charging fewer points than before in a number of PE-related upgrade scenarios.

Any changes in upgrade inventory were already happening, and going to continue regardless of the introduction of PP. And the fact that it also gives UA a lot more flexibility to charge more for upgrades hasn't happened.. yet. If UA hadn't gone and doubled the qualification requirements I would have said 2020 was a good year for status benefits, even if they are slashing the value of miles.