Amex Platinum Revamp 2025: What You Need to Know
If you're new to the world of points travel, you’ve probably heard that premium credit cards come packed with perks—but also steep annual fees. Lately, rumors are swirling that American Express is gearing up for its biggest Platinum Card overhaul ever. So what’s changing, and is it still a good pick for travel beginners?
Let’s break it down—with comparisons to the top competitors—to help you decide if the new Platinum is right for you.
The Amex Platinum Card Revamp – What We Know So Far
Today (June 16, 2025), American Express teased a major overhaul to its U.S. Consumer and Business Platinum cards—calling it the “largest investment ever” in the card's 40‑year history. This comes right as Chase prepares to launch a Business Sapphire Reserve, and after Chase’s recent Sapphire Reserve refresh. Amex is clearly leaning into the premium-lifestyle space, targeting rising high‑income Millennials and Gen Z consumers who now contribute ~35% of cardholder spending.
American Express is planning:
More Centurion Lounges (including Salt Lake City, Tokyo and Newark)
Expanded Resy and dining perks (like reservations at hard-to-book places)
Possible wellness, streaming, or lifestyle credits
A card redesign (rumored to be ultra-premium metal)
A higher annual fee, possibly jumping from $695 to $895
They’re calling it their “largest investment ever” into the card. Translation? They want it to be the card for luxury-minded travelers.
So… Is the Revamped Amex Platinum Worth It?
For points enthusiasts, the rumored Amex Platinum revamp presents a familiar tradeoff: elevated luxury vs. practical flexibility. With talk of expanded Centurion Lounge access, enhanced lifestyle credits, and a sleeker design, Amex is clearly reinforcing its position as the card for premium, high-touch experiences. But with a potential fee jump to $895, the value proposition hinges more than ever on how efficiently you leverage every credit, lounge visit, and benefit.
Meanwhile, the Chase Sapphire Reserve is rumored to counter with more flexible travel credits, improved Priority Pass and Sapphire Lounge access, and potential updates to bonus earning categories. For those who prioritize ease of use, streamlined redemptions through Ultimate Rewards, and valuable transfer partners like Hyatt or Air Canada, Chase’s changes might offer more practical upside—especially if you’re already deep in the Chase ecosystem.
In short: Amex Platinum remains the luxury-first choice for high-frequency travelers who maximize every elite benefit. But if you favor point liquidity, transfer flexibility, and a lower-maintenance user experience, the enhanced Reserve might be the more strategic play.
Final Thoughts: What You Should Do Now
Here’s your roadmap if you're dipping your toes into points travel:
Track the rumors – The full Amex Platinum refresh is expected in Fall 2025.
Start with a simpler card – You can always graduate to Amex Platinum once you’re maximizing points and travel perks.
Test the waters – Use a card with travel credits or portal bonuses to book a trip and start learning how rewards work.
And if you do choose Amex Platinum? Be ready for a premium ride—just make sure you’re using all the bells and whistles that come with it. If all these credit card changes feel overwhelming—or if you’re ready to start maximizing your points like a pro—I’d love to help. Whether you're planning your first award trip or fine-tuning a multi-card strategy, I offer personalized guidance to help you unlock luxury travel without breaking the bank. Ready to turn your everyday spending into first-class experiences? Let’s build your custom points travel plan.
