I think OP is right to note that this gives more control to operator. Unless telecom regulators make moving around easy, most operators will tie device IMEI to

I think OP is right to note that this gives more control to operator. Unless telecom regulators make moving around easy, most operators will tie device IMEI to eSIM (calling it security) and make it hard to move. Also you failed to notice, all the custom ROM world (yes, they do exist to avoid dumping tons of money onto bloatware infested phones) will be left out. The operator in my country providing eSIM needs no root/jailbreak etc. (Sure iPhone users do not care) > are a massive win when travelling, too Most people in the world are usually in the same place. From my experience, these business travellers are usually not just rich but also have tons of roaming/data plans.