Having the same problem with a new iPhone 16plus and Watch 9 .The icon for the watch-ping widget is there, but greyed out and non functional.
‘the watch is definitely paired correctly. Restarting phone and watch has no effect.
[Re-Titled by Moderator]
iPhone 16 Plus, iOS 18
Did you try to unpair and connect it again after that, without using the latest backup, setting it up as a new Apple Watch?
Unpair and erase your Apple Watch - Apple Support
If this does not work, let Apple know directly by using the Feedback link.
Since the iPhone 16 series is brand new, there still might be software issues between the watch and the iPhone.
Feedback - Apple Watch - Apple
Did you try to unpair and connect it again after that, without using the latest backup, setting it up as a new Apple Watch?
Unpair and erase your Apple Watch - Apple Support
If this does not work, let Apple know directly by using the Feedback link.
Since the iPhone 16 series is brand new, there still might be software issues between the watch and the iPhone.
Feedback - Apple Watch - Apple
The icon on my Apple Watch-ping widget is greyed out and non functional
