With the new release of the Galileo 2 you might be wondering what the differences are. In short these are the differences:

• The serial cable used to connect to the Linux console is now using a standard FTDI 3.3V cable.
  • Like this one on Amazon
• Another difference is that the Galileo 2 has improved I/O speeds. 
• Also the PWM pin performance has been improved.
  • 12-bit PWM controller allows for more fine grained control. 
• The Galileo 2 is longer than the Galileo 1. 
  • It is about 1 inch longer
• The USB Host port is a full size port
  • No longer needs a separate OTG connector in order to be used.