I just got round to playing v1.22, and the most immediate (and enjoyable) change is the instant pick up.
I might be imagining this but I spent most time in 1.18-1.20 and when an item is newly on the floor, it takes like half a second for it to be picked up.
But now, when I am cutting cattails, for example, the moment it's cut down, it's picked up if I am close enough. I like it.
But I cannot be sure if I am imagining this or if it's a real update? haha.