Sure, Steer by wire is new. DBW generally refers to the connection between the accelerator pedal and the throttle. There, DBW has been the norm for many years.
Mechanical failure was always possible with brakes.
Even if the pedal is physically connected to the brake cylinder ABS can do whatever it wishes to: ABS can apply and unapply brakes at any time, also asymetrically.
This years F1 cars are brake by wire. It let's them control the kinetic energy recovery better.