As a newly minted 2MM I too am surprised at the significant Platinum status granted. Never saw that coming. I really don't get the Amex Platinum changes either, I started the card with access to AA, US Air and DL lounges at a lot less cost than today. Are they really going to try to convince people that this is still a $695 card? This will have to cost Amex a small fortune in revenue and I can't imagine what they feel they will replace this benefit with.