Yes, it's the stated and obvious intention. However in actuality it works to get the user to read the page, and not actually subscribe. This non-obvious side ef

Yes, it's the stated and obvious intention. However in actuality it works to get the user to read the page, and not actually subscribe. This non-obvious side effect is the hidden primary intention of the mechanic. edits: They could probably re-word the annoyance to state this and it would have the same effect. Something like: "we want to give a pause right here to ask you to read the page, as asking for this helps more people stay and read but first please think about whether you want to subscribe to our newsletter sometime in the future. By thinking about this, we've found that this helps more people to read this wonderful article. Thanks for your time!"