1) Internet Explorer 8 had a Search Box which held the current search query. The advantage of having a separate search box is after entering a query and delving into many of the search results and their sub-pages, I could always go back and use that search query again (to get me back home in my research so to speak). I could also edit and fine tune that search query, etc.
IE 9 chose to completely remove the separate search box and force search queries into the address bar. The queries are immediately taken off the screen when a search is done; yes the query can be found using the address bar drop box and then sifting through the various links and queries, but that is annoying compared to the separate Search Box alternative, plus there may be similar queries and confusion. Why didn't Microsoft give the *option* to use a search box? It is a very simple programming feat - Chrome has an Add-on to satisfy this desire (Universal Search & IE8 Accelerators 1.1).
2) Internet Explorer 8 had an option to disable Clear Type. The advantage of removing Clear Type is to have clear type, and save your eyes and brain from strain - see the millions of complaints about Fuzz Type (I mean Clear Type).
IE 9 chose to remove the option to disable Clear Type. Why did Microsoft force it's users to use Clear Type? It is a very simple programming feat to supply the option to disable Clear Type.
I am typing in these questions from Chrome ...