http://searchengineland.com/google-downplays-google-with-updated-authorship-snippet-156870

This would disincentivize some I would think (is that a word?). I also don't get the pull away from G+. Perhaps the EU put the kibosh on that?

So really you just get a picture now. Hmm... what's the point... unless I change my picture to some delicious eye candy or something!