Yes, Apple support told me it’s not a network issue. It doesn’t make sense for it to be since you’re not using the network. You’re using Bluetooth (which is its own small independent network) .
The solution that finally worked for me was to read each manual very carefully and pair each of my five Bluetooth items exactly the way the manual said (the Apple tech supervisor actually looked them up & told me what to do). It was a tiny bit different for each one (click twice for this one; click and hold for that one, etc.
I never had to do that with my iPhone 15 (just turned each one on and they immediately saw each other), but I sure did with this delicate flower 16.
Everyone out there in the US does know it’s free to call Apple Support for the first 90 days (and I’ve heard longer) to get help with these things, right? Just call 800.MYAPPLE (692.7793).
Hint: Be sure to ask for a case number before you hang up. It will save you a ton of time if you ever have to call back on this same stupid issue. .