If you try to create a Google account from Google's homepage, you'll notice that Google redesigned the page, but that's not all. You'll now have to create a Gmail account, a Google Profile and you'll automatically join Google+.
New Google Accounts Require Gmail and Google+ (via Google Operating System)
I don't have an issue with these changes at Google. I already use so many Google services — Gmail, Docs, Calendar, Analytics, Photos (formerly Picasa) Google+ etc — that it only makes sense that my Google+ and my other Google account are integrated. I'm more engaged on that platform than anywhere else. I love that Gmail now includes circles; a natural extension of Gmail filters. I want to give priority to responding to email from my family. One click on the Family circle and I can focus on doing just that.
Google+: View post on Google+
