I wonder how much actual conversion happens in these kind of forms, anyway. Who are the people that sign up to newsletters of a random website before even reading anything? And who signs up after reading just an intro?

I get the idea of the mailing lists - generate traffic that does not rely on external platforms, with their ever changing algorithms that need to be appeased and courted, and who might even change the rules or ban you from promoting your content.

But sure the conversion rates for these full screen modal overlays must be lower than the attrition you get from scaring away passer by readers?