Brian Barwig spotted a subtle test in the Google search results where Google was adding a shaded, gray background shadow effect to the review stars in the local pack in the Google search results.
He posted this picture on Twitter and asked why would Google do this:
It does look off and weird, and it doesn't seem to be adding much to the design or interface of the search results. I personally cannot replicate it but those who saw it don't seem to like the look.
This is one of many many Google tests they try out daily.
Forum discussion at Twitter.