It is still the 8.8" with generally the same gear offerings as are available now. Gear swaps will be similar as they are now, however I don't know how axles are secured into the spider gears so expect small hardware differences.
Based on photos showing the rear carrier, the outer case (at least) is not the old 8.8" axle. While it is possible that the new case holds old guts, I find it hard to believe that Ford would spend the money to design and tool a brand new carrier (in two materials) when there was nothing wrong with the old one, unless they needed to house a new diff and R&P set.
Regarding axle shaft retention, the 8.8 was already compatible with snap ring clips. They were used in the MN12 Thunderbird, the Mk8, the Cobra, as well as the front axle of F-150. So that part isn't rocket science, and does not dictate changes to the differential and carrier design.
I'm willing to bet that this thing looks different on the outside for a reason.