Physical remote for Homepod (not using iphone)?

Call me crazy, but...

(1) unlock phone

(2) slide to open control center

(3) tap to open music controls

(4) slide to bring homepod controls into view

(5) tap to activate homepod music control

(6) use side buttons to control homepod volume

...is not a viable option when you're trying to answer the phone at the same time (or otherwise can't give Siri a verbal command).

Homepod is great, but it needs a physical remote you can just grab and press. Do I really have to dig out an old iphone and dedicate it as an "always open" music control laying on my desk plugged in?