However, the author of the article mentioned that Google is saying Google+ is THE future of the company.
Just because the author mentioned that doesn't make it true.
http://www.oregonlive.com/business/index.ssf/2011/06/googles...
The author cites this article, which (ignoring the fact that it is an interview with Google ex-CEO) doesn't even mention Google Plus by name. Personally, I'd say that the author's post demonstrates that Google doesn't think Google Plus is central to the company's future.