The introduction of SQL pipe syntax in BigQuery is generating excitement in the database community. The syntax allows for more intuitive and streamlined queries, reminiscent of other functional query languages like PRQL. Users are discussing the cleaner syntax offered by PRQL, which compiles to SQL but is not backward compatible, raising questions about the potential for similar innovations in databases like Postgres and MySQL. The conversation also touches on the broader implications of adopting pipe syntax across various platforms and its historical origins.