[morganb]

Of course Google leaves the tech news sites' profiles up. They want the coverage to keep the product positioned in a good light with the publications that will keep it top of mind with the early adopters who will give it the momentum it needs to keep growing.

If they shut down those press sites, they'll pay less attention, write about "inflexible Google" and risk spoiling the current bromance between the early adpoters and Google+.

So while it is inconsistent, not "fair" and completely transparent in it's aim, it also makes total sense.