I've never known any airline that's opened their check in more than 4 hours early, and I've flown Qatar Airways out of Houston many times with the time from check in to lounge in the 30-60 minute range. Anyone have any idea what's going on?

The message:
Dear customer, please be informed that your flight QR0714/25AUG23/IAH-DOH will depart as scheduled at 1820H. Kindly report to the check-in counter 04Hrs 30Min prior to departure to avoid any inconvenience. Thank you, Qatar Airways Ground Services.