What are those funny tabs sticking out of the seats? They look very similar to the old reservation systems on
HSTs▸ (remember them?) which have been replaces easy to read coloured lights

You mean the 'easy to read colour lights that failed before the train left
PAD» this morning and were replaced by bits of cardboard on the back of the seats'

Apparently the funny tabs are grab handles for Snow White's attendants as they go off to work down the aisle. I heard somebody mention that they are likely to be bashed by the passing buffet trolley, but in reality they actually sit inside the profile of the arm rests.