I bought a Note 9 the first week of December. I've had a few updates but nothing changes as far the look of the UI or menus as you've mentioned.
I will say that I am using a Samsung murdered out theme that makes everything black. Not sure if keeps the menu looking the same due to the theme.
I worked in the cell industry for years and have used every platform that has been released since 2004. The Note 9 is hands down my favorite phone that I have carried.