why? I got my bank letter from them after being here for one week and having my money in the bank for 3 weeks. Only way it should stop you from getting an extension is if you won't agree to freeze your money for the 4 months. I had my 1 year extension after having my money banked for 1 month. Yes the banking rules have changed, just need to follow the new rules, but can be done easily enough.
some people would rather pay the money and avoid the hassle. Definitely much cheaper to do yourself and not complicated if its not your first extension. But the option is still there.
Been that way for a little while now at Bangkok bank. You have to season it for 2 months and keep it in the bank for months after your extension so really what is the change? Either way I have to keep the money in the bank for 4 months counting the seasoning 2 months.