I agree with you that maybe they are being more sensitives with our cases, and an indirect to say this application process will be longer, to search other ways to see our spouses before. It's strange that they are encouraging us to apply for TRV when before being the spouse was a big reason of rejecting it (of course there are exceptions, but the majority they reject).Nope the criteria is exactly the same, it is mentioned on that link as well but there is a chance. Why they mention specifically for immediate family members and give a deadline till 30th June, after that anyone can apply for TRV.
They might see TRV applications more emotionally? I don't know. And I won't know until I actually apply and see the result.
I have been reading for such long time in these forums that why don't IRCC give out TRVs for spouses and I feel like this is their way of telling us that we are listening to you and encouraging you to apply for spousal TRV. Again, might be a scam to get $100 from us but if it gives me hope of bringing my spouse earlier then I am willing to spend that $100.
Just waiting a couple of days more to decide if I apply for it (remembering I had the TRV denied in october last year)