The American Express Platinum Card is well-known for its luxury perks and premium lifestyle benefits. But recently, the card has gone through a major revamp. While new features and elite hotel memberships have been added, some old benefits have been removed. Also, the annual fee has been increased significantly. This has led to a mix of excitement and confusion among cardholders and potential users.
If you’re wondering whether the American Express Platinum Card is still worth it after all these changes, you’re in the right place. This article explains everything in simple terms — the good, the not-so-good, and who should consider getting this card. We’ll cover the new benefits, added hotel programs, spending rewards, discontinued features, and the value you actually get from the card. If you’re planning to upgrade your credit card or switch to a more premium experience, read on to understand if the revamped Amex Platinum Card fits your lifestyle and budget.
What’s New in the American Express Platinum Card?
American Express has added several new benefits to the Platinum Card. These are mostly targeted at people who travel often or enjoy luxury experiences.
Key New Benefits
Let’s break down the major updates to help you understand what’s now included:
1. Additional Hotel Memberships
Amex Platinum now offers complimentary access to three more hotel loyalty programs, increasing your options for luxurious stays.
- Accor Plus Traveller Membership
- The Lalit – Postcard Hotel Sunshine Club (Platinum Tier)
- I Prefer – Titanium Membership
These are in addition to previously included memberships like:
- Hilton Honors (Gold)
- Marriott Bonvoy (Gold)
- Radisson Rewards
This expansion gives users more choices and VIP treatment at more hotels.
2. Cashback on Apple Products
You now get a permanent cashback of up to ₹8,000 on Apple product purchases, whether online or in-store. This is useful if you regularly buy Apple gadgets.
3. Free OTT Subscriptions
Users receive a Times Ace membership that offers free access to over 40 OTT platforms and digital publications. This can save up to ₹45,000 annually if you stream content often.
4. High-Value Spending Reward
For the first time, Amex has introduced a voucher reward based on spending:
- Spend ₹20 lakh annually and get vouchers worth up to ₹35,000
- Vouchers are redeemable at Taj Hotels, Postcard Hotels, and Reliance Brands
This is a move to attract high spenders and reward loyalty.
What’s No Longer Available or Has Changed
While new perks are exciting, some benefits have been removed or altered, which may disappoint existing cardholders.
Major Drawbacks
1. Increased Annual Fee
- New Fee: ₹77,800 (including 18% GST)
- Old Fee: ₹60,000 + GST
This hike makes it one of the most expensive credit cards in India. There is still no fee waiver based on spending, though voucher rewards now offer some relief.
2. Guest Access to Lounges Removed
Add-on cardholders can access Centurion Lounges in Delhi and Mumbai, but guest access has been discontinued. You can’t bring a companion unless they have a separate eligible card.
3. Birthday Taj Vouchers Discontinued
Previously, Amex Platinum users received ₹10,000 Taj vouchers during their birthday month. This benefit has been removed, which many found valuable and memorable.
Spending Rewards: Are They Worth It?
Earning Points
- You earn 1 Membership Rewards point per ₹40 spent
- Each point is worth a maximum of ₹0.50
- That means a maximum reward rate of 1.25%
This is low for a card in this price range, especially when compared to other super-premium cards offering 3% or more in specific categories.
Value for Money?
This card is clearly not built for cashback lovers or those looking to maximize rewards on everyday purchases. Its strength lies in:
- Travel perks
- Hotel memberships
- Elite experiences
If your spending exceeds ₹20 lakh per year, and you enjoy luxury travel, this card might still make sense.
Other Valuable Benefits of the Revamped Card
While the headline benefits have changed, some long-standing features remain:
1. Concierge Services
Amex’s 24/7 concierge can help with:
- Travel bookings
- Restaurant reservations
- Gifting and more
2. International Airport Lounge Access
You get:
- Unlimited Priority Pass access
- Centurion Lounge access globally
Ideal for frequent international travelers.
3. Complimentary Golf Sessions
Enjoy access to premium golf courses across India, ideal for high-end leisure seekers.
4. Invitation-Only Events
You may receive invites to:
- Exclusive brand launches
- VIP dinners
- Cultural events
These perks align with Amex’s goal of offering “experiences money can’t buy.”
Who Should Consider This Card?
This card isn’t for everyone. Here’s a quick guide to who can benefit most:
Best For:
- High-net-worth individuals (HNWIs)
- Frequent international travelers
- Luxury hotel users
- Those who value premium services and experiences
Not Suitable For:
- Users seeking cashbacks or high rewards on daily spending
- People who rarely travel or stay in luxury hotels
- Budget-conscious users
How to Apply for the Amex Platinum Card
You can apply online through the American Express website or through a relationship manager. There is no clearly mentioned income eligibility, but approval is typically offered to high-income individuals with excellent credit profiles.
FAQs – American Express Platinum Card Revamped
Q1. Is the new Amex Platinum Card worth the high fee?
If you use its luxury hotel memberships, lounge access, and premium services, the benefits may justify the ₹77,800 fee. Otherwise, it may be too expensive.
Q2. Can I get a fee waiver based on spending?
No, Amex does not offer a full fee waiver. But if you spend ₹20 lakh annually, you get vouchers worth up to ₹35,000.
Q3. Do supplementary cardholders get lounge access?
Yes, but guest access is now removed. Only cardholders (primary or add-on) can use the lounges individually.
Q4. What is the cashback offer on Apple products?
You get a permanent cashback of up to ₹8,000 on Apple purchases made online or in-store.
Q5. Can I still access the Taj birthday vouchers?
No, the birthday voucher benefit has been discontinued in the new update.
Q6. What hotel memberships are included now?
New additions include:
- Accor Plus Traveller
- Postcard Sunshine Club (Platinum)
- I Prefer Titanium
These join existing memberships with Hilton, Marriott, and more.
Q7. How do I earn reward points with this card?
You earn 1 reward point per ₹40 spent, with a maximum value of ₹0.50 per point — a low rate for such a premium card.
Conclusion: Final Thoughts on the Amex Platinum Revamp
The American Express Platinum Card revamped experience brings both excitement and disappointment. While new travel perks, OTT access, and cashback offers make the card more attractive to luxury spenders, the removal of birthday benefits, limited reward rate, and higher fees may not appeal to all.
It is a great card if you’re a luxury traveler who frequently stays at top-tier hotels and flies internationally. If not, you might be better served by other high-reward cards from Axis or HDFC Bank that focus more on cashback or airline miles.
Before applying, evaluate your spending habits and lifestyle needs carefully. A premium card should offer value that aligns with your daily life — not just fancy features that look good on paper.
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