Hello there my friend. Those are interesting suggestions. I totally agree but I understand the reason why some of them might never happen. For example instant messaging. It would be just amazing to be able to talk to your friends directly but I assume it won’t happen because they are afraid spammers who ll beg for votes etc. interface definitely needs a face lift.
As for the new users i think there is a welcome bot that upvotes their introduction post. But thats all. New users need more attention for sure.
Who knows...maybe when communities project is ready some of these changes will escort it.
Have a great day @cicbar