Upcoming Features To 1.9

Confirmed
Snow will spawn naturally again.

Possible features
Sheeps will regenerate wool.
The Source code will be released.
More nether things.(Zombie pigmen villages?)
Netherrack will occur near the portal.
Pigmen.
Crystalline caves.
A way to win.
Small animals.
Better powered minecarts.
New Launcher.
Platinum tools.

Problably not feautures
Dragons.
Lanterns.
Fish.
Apple trees
Sponges