The new Cypher grammar in Neo4j version 1.8.M01 introduces a more declarative and SQL-inspired syntax, allowing users to express data manipulation in a cleaner way, reducing the need for imperative patterns. The language now includes features like FOREACH, which enables operations on collections of things, and WITH, which combines RETURN and START statements. The Graph Console has been updated to support interactive experimentation with Cypher examples, and shared graph-gists can be easily shared on social media or discussed in online communities. The Neo4j Manual is also evolving to include a live, constantly updating documentation that learns from user interactions.