If I click on the link in HN, it takes me to a "To Read the Full Story, Subscribe or Sign In", but going from google seems to set a cookie allowing you to view the full article.
Doesn't work. It worked once, but as soon as I refreshed, or tried it again, it hides the content. Had to incognito to get the right cookie again. Looks like they REALLY want more users.
Agreed that it is annoying to go through that extra step.