I think it comes down to comfort zones and convenience. I agree with you on the similarity between the papers and much of the news (rather than the commentator bits) is the same.

Inertia, however, is a powerful thing and as payment processes get slicker the ease of just handing over seemingly small amounts may well lead to people being carried along. Especially on devices such as your old friend the iPad.

So I don't think people will pay for the extra content which, as you say, looks a bit pointless. I do think that this content will make them feel a little better for paying not to have to look for an alternative.