I can't connect HomePod to my iPhone

Okay, so not an iPod question, but a HomePod one. Okay.

How far through the HomePod mini setup can you get? Set up and use HomePod - Apple Support

Apple has available HomePod troubleshooting info, too: If you can't set up HomePod - Apple Support

With a roll of tape or some glue, sure. To load music, not so much.