HomePod stuck in the configuring state

Remember the good old days when apple "just worked".

I just got a new HomePod. I've reset the device multiple times. Removed from iCloud, HomeKit, unplugged, restarted my iOS device (iPhone 16 pro max), restarted my router, etc. etc. etc.....It still doesn't get out of the CONFIGURING state.

I've read several old entries online. While I tried many of these, one shouldn't have to go through this.

[Re-Titled by Moderator]