I don’t see rooftop solar panels unless I go outside and intentionally look for them.

A mini-split system puts an ugly, cheap, plastic wall-cyst within your field of view in every room they’re installed.

Why are they plastic wall-cystst though? Wouldn't a manufacturer offering a less obtrusive look (I'm not thinking of fancy boutique, just Ikea grade surfaces) alongside a standard interface for third party options get a huge market advantage?

> your eyes just slide over them and you don’t notice.

Nah.

There have been minisplits in the US for years, they are just not very common. Moreover they have been commonplace in Asia for decades now. They are noticeable. I personally think they look like ass. They are huge and you are blind if you don't notice them. There is a reason why ducted or recessed models are available internationally for luxury homes. It has nothing to do with Americans.