I bought an iPhone 16e which I am about to sell, not only because of iOS 26 (horrific looking and battery drain), but I did not know they switched to only eSIMs. I have a flip phone which I like to use when I have no need for a smart phone. Now there is no way for me to switch. Plus, I know when I take out my SIM there is no way any one is tracking my phone.

eSIMs just another way these companies are trying to control, and as you said, profit, off of their customers.

I see this as taking ownership away from the customer as well. I no longer own the SIM in essence.