Does ice cream look better in a cone? Sure. But that’s it. If you order it from a restaurant or shop, eating it in a cone feels rushed. With a cup, you can take it home with you and put it in the freezer and save it for later if you want. I would even argue that you will get more ice cream from a cup than there is in a cone. Also, in a cup, you can add toppings more effectively in the ice cream and mix them up in a better way than in a cone. Another thing, cups are less messy. Ice cream always runs the risk of melting in general, but atleast with a cup you have a smaller chance of it dripping on your hands and clothes.
Not sure I’ve met anyone who is adamant that cones are always superior. Not sure this is as unpopular as you would think. I wonder if it is regional? I live in the south east US where it gets very warm. Maybe cooler areas enjoy the luxury of a cone.