[joecool1029]

> Instead of inserting it, I scanned a QR code.

Which you need an internet connection for. A SIM you do not.

> People are complaining so much that I guess maybe I've had just good luck with carriers?

Apple really put a lot of thought into making the process as seamless as possible if the carrier builds into their system. Credit where credit is due, but everywhere else is a fragmented mess (not unlike how bad the voLTE situation has been with inconsistent phone/carrier support).

Apple's physical to esim transfer process is great (as well as phone to phone transfer) if the carrier supports it, but now how do you go about moving esim to an android phone if you like swapping around? Good luck navigating carrier apps/site/phone/store/etc...