There were some nice things in the preview for 1.1 that weren't included in the final release.
https://forums.galciv2.com/?ForumID=161&AID=107300#843882
Here is the stuff in the preview that weren't included and that we haven't heard of since:
* The ability to set a given planet as a technology, research, ship building or balanced planet, . NOT like the overall focus. It would literally add a 9% boost to a given type (or 3%, 3%, 3%).
* Color coded the hammers/etc. based on whether they are bonus or not. Then on mouse over, which by then should be very nice, we can display where these numbers come from.
* Additional ship extras for more ship options
* Approval Rating > 75% gives you a 5% boost to production. Approval rating < 40% has a -5% affect on production. Players won't be charged for this bonus production.
* Dynamic logo components - brand your ships with your insignia
* New ship components
* New maps and scenarios

My question to the developers is whether they were abandoned or if they will be implemented in the future?