2008 Air Filter Design Change

Anyone know why the air filter was changed on the '08 H3 models?  I was going to order the GM performance air filter kit, but I noticed it didn't show up for the '08 models.   I went outside and opened up the box, and it's a large square filter instead of the cone shaped filter that was on the '07.
 
Also, opening up the box to get to the filter was more of a hassle than before.
 
This is for the I5 engine, by the way.  I have no idea about the Alpha.
 
 
 

I heard they were different.  Don't know why.

Grant:  this was the subject of a prior post 2008 H3 3.7 AIR FILTER ,  please chek it out.  (My blue is the link) 
I'm not saying this to pick on ya, but because I asked real nice if The Tank would post up a pic of the new filter for the rest of us to check out................but nothin.   So, you have indeed confirmed the 08 I5 has went to a panel filter instead of the barrel from before.  So would ya, could ya, post a pic or two of the filter and new box???           
Does your owner's manual list the AC delco part number for the air filter?  That would be cool too.  Help.   Thank you.

Sure.  I'll take a picture of it tonight when I get home and post it on here, as well as checking the owners manual for a part number. 
 

Redesign was due to two reasons:
One commonization of parts at the assembly plant. The same filter element is used for both engine applications.
The other was to introduce filtered air into the secondary air system pump via the secondary air inlet hose.
 
It should be a less expensive filter to replace since the flat pleated filters are less expensive than a formed cone filter.

i wonder if it will have a cheaper aftermarket cai

I guess that answers the question about if the Alpha filter is different (which it is not), thanks f5fstop.  Anyone find the part number? :)

I guess I'm gonna have to stop by the dealer and look for myself.  Wonder what they'll say when a whip open the hood in the show room and pull out the air filter? 
 
Thanks f5fstop, but you didn't leave us with the part #?????????????

OK, sorry, I forgot to get a picture of it last night.  I'll get it on my lunch break and post it on here along with the part number!

Replacment part number 15942429 . A performance part would have a different number and there is none listed in GM's catalog.