From what I understand, BofA doesn't automatically change cardholders over
That's precisely what they've been doing this fall -- sending out Signature cards and telling Plat card holders to destroy their old cards. In truth, as discussed in
the old thread, if you don't destroy your Plat card you can still use it until its original expire date.
I've no idea why the OP's friend's card wasn't changed as well -- it is true that they still have the Plat card (you can apply for a new one) so maybe there's a limited group of people whose credit scores don't qualify them for the "upgrade".
I really don't understand how the change was a "major pain in the neck."
They may not be for some. But if I have to change several automated payments and have my credit score lowered because of the change in the way the balance is reported all so BoA can make more money (Signature cards are more profitable for banks, hence the switch to them in the last few years) then it's not unreasonable to expect some incentive for doing so. Since BoA couldn't be bothered to offer any, I'm canceling the card. Then in a few months, I'll get a new Signature card and 20K miles to go with it for my trouble.