HomePod unavailable after updating to iOS 26 on iPhone 16

Downloaded latest software ( IOS26 ) is for iphone 16. Now cannot connect to HomePods. Restarted everything, HomePods reset as well, Wi-Fi , removed all HomePods from home app. Still says HomePod unavailable when I try to connect. Both say same Wi-Fi. Can control devices in home app using Siri also HomePods play music from Apple Music but my phone has no control. Nb currently live in Europe.

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: HomePod unavailable