Seems like Google won't be removing the SIM slot after all!
The Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro are likely to keep the SIM tray rather than go all-in on eSIM. We could also see Night Sight video on the 8 Pro.
Context: https://lemmy.world/post/3584474
I appreciate posting this follow-up, and I'm happy the slot is sticking around if this news holds. As I said in the linked context above, it's still a bit too rough relying on the carriers to be helpful in transferring eSim.