ED may indeed move to universities only. That would have severe effects on the language school industry, but the Thais have now shown they are willing to bear that.

 

For now only year 1 applications on a newish passport are somewhat safe.

3 hours ago, emptypockets said:

I've never heard of anyone abusing retirement visas.

It's not unheard of though. As being retired isn't actually a requirement for obtaining such a visa or extension, there are people who get it because it's relatively easy and cheap (once you're 50+, that is), but abuse it by working in Thailand illegally. Now with income affidavits gone, it might get abused to a lesser extent.