As I remember the old search you could filter so say
Movies - Comedy
Or
Sport - Boxing
You can still do this by simply typing Boxing or comedy , seems to work the same here.
As for button presses I'd say it's exactly the same the exception being accessing TV guide which requires a second press , the coloured shortcuts still work ie Red On Demand , Green Planner. Maybe it's just me I suppose I've had a lot longer to get used to it.
I guess we all have different viewing habits as with most updates it seems a mixed bag you either love it or hate it
, I've seen some people state they don't like how search lumps On Demand and TV Guide together now , I must admit I didn't at first however it's grown on me.
I always say it but if you don't like something start a thread on the Sky help forum , if it's something others don't also like they'll listen trust me on that the development team listen to all constructive feedback.