This SFO version looks a bit nicer, though. You can apply 30 days out vs PHL's 7 days. And PHL makes me choose a specific entry gate when applying. So if you show up and that gate has a long line you can't just go through another gate that has a shorter line (at least that's what they tell you - in practice I've entered through different gates without any problems).

Both PHL and SFO won't notify you whether you are approved until midnight of the day you want to enter, which I find interesting. I guess that's some sort of security feature? I've never been denied, but it could be a hassle if you don't find out until the last minute that you were denied.

For example the airline can give you a “gate only” pass. Essentially you need somebody to sponsor you to be on the other side of the security gates. In this case the airport itself is openly offering to sponsor folks.

I haven't been to SFO recently. Does anyone know if they genuinely have good art or good dining?

San Diego has SAN Pass, which is essentially the same program with the same rationale for existence.