American Express is preparing to launch a major update to its Platinum Card later in 2025. The changes are designed to boost the card’s value by adding improved travel benefits, exclusive dining access, and enhanced lifestyle services.
One of the most talked-about updates is the expansion of Centurion Lounges. New locations are planned for Newark, Salt Lake City, and Tokyo airports. Once these lounges open, Amex will have over 30 such premium lounges worldwide.
These lounges are known for offering high-quality amenities like complimentary meals, Wi-Fi, and a quiet place to relax before flights.
Alongside the travel perks, American Express is also focusing on dining. The company recently acquired Tock, a restaurant reservation platform that helps diners book high-end restaurants.
This move is expected to help Platinum Card holders access better dining reservations, exclusive events, and preferred seating at popular venues.
American Express says these changes are based on feedback from current users, especially younger cardholders such as Millennials and Gen Z.
These groups are seeking more practical, real-world benefits. Today’s users want more than just points—they value experiences and everyday perks.
The company has not revealed every detail yet, but it has made it clear that these upgrades are part of a strategy to stay ahead in the highly competitive premium credit card market. More information is expected later in the year, possibly by the fall.
$AXP PLANS BIGGEST-EVER PLATINUM REFRESH
— Wall St Engine (@wallstengine) June 16, 2025
American Express is rolling out major updates to its U.S. Consumer and Business Platinum Cards later this year—marking its largest card refresh ever. Expect new perks across travel, dining, and lifestyle, plus upgrades to Centurion… pic.twitter.com/fcsSn64HAz
Annual Fee Could Rise as Benefits Expand
With the planned upgrades, American Express may also increase the annual fee for the Platinum Card. Currently, the fee stands at $695. However, experts predict that the cost could rise to between $900 and $1,000 once the new perks are fully launched.
This expected price hike has sparked debate. Some cardholders say they are willing to pay more if the added benefits provide real value. Features like expanded lounge access, premium dining reservations, and luxury travel perks could justify a higher fee for those who use them often.
Others, however, may question whether the new perks are worth the extra cost. This could especially affect customers who don’t travel frequently or don’t use the card’s features to their fullest.
American Express is not alone in improving its offerings. Competing cards like Chase Sapphire Reserve are also being updated to appeal to high-end users.
This shows a broader trend in the credit card industry, where companies are adding lifestyle and experience-based benefits rather than focusing only on cashback or points.
To keep its position as a top premium card, Amex must prove that the new Platinum Card delivers excellent value. The success of this relaunch will depend on how well the features meet cardholders’ needs—and whether they’re enough to justify a higher fee.
Final announcements on pricing, benefit details, and rollout dates are expected later in 2025. Until then, many existing and potential customers are watching closely to see what changes American Express will officially confirm.
