HomePods network issue after iOS 26 update

Back with another update to this annoying issue.

Since I posted last, my Apple Home, has been working as a turn sign signal - devices work for a while, then they don't, then they do again and.... over and over.

So I did some more digging, and found out the Matter list in my i-devices is broken.

So I have been doing the following (end result still pending - is it stable now?)

The first thing before resetting your devices should be to update and reboot your Apple infrastructure as follows. This is especially important for future major updates and can help avoid unnecessary resets:

1. Always update your end devices, i.e. iPhones/iPads (iOS/iPadOS) to the latest version, and update your Matter devices as well.
2. Force quit all HomeKit-enabled apps and restart the iPhone/iPad. Close an app on your iPhone or iPod touch - Apple Support
3. Make sure that all home hubs (Apple TV 4/4K and/or HomePod/mini) are also updated to the latest versions. Never rely on automatic updates - disable Apple's automatic update of your iOS on all devices.
4. Restart all home hubs by unplugging the power cable for one minute, then plug it back in and wait 10 minutes before continuing.

Then, try the following:

1. On the iPhone (or iPad) of the homeowner in iOS, open Settings > General > Matter Accessories:
   1. If your Matter devices still appear here (by serial number/Matter code), delete them manually.
   2. If you see ghost entries such as “Matter Accessory,” delete these as well. This is specific to Matter via Apple. When you remove devices from your home, you must delete them manually here; otherwise, you will not be able to re-add them. (all your Matter devices reside in the Keychain, and should be removed! Don't worry, they'll return when you re-add your device again)
   3. Fact: I found, that "if" your device is currently working as it should, there will be your Appple Home name underneath the listed device, e.g. Eve Thermo -> My home, if it's not functioning as it should, the device will just be listed as Eve Thermo
2. Make sure a Thread-enabled hub such as a HomePod mini is set as the leading hub in Apple Home > Home Settings > Home hubs & Bridges.
3. Please force quit all HomeKit-enabled apps, such as Home, and any others you use, then reboot the iPhone/iPad. Close an app on your iPhone or iPod touch - Apple Support
4. Reboot your home hubs by disconnecting them from the power source for at least one minute (I suggest 10 minutes to be safe), then plug them back in and wait at least 10 minutes.
5. Reset your Matter device according to the manufacturer’s specific reset instructions or documentation.
   1. Typically via the small hole insertion - use your sim card pin, and hold it in the hole insertion for at least 10 seconds or more
6. Stand close to your device; ensure Bluetooth, mobile data, and Wi-Fi are turned on.
   1. Do not use VPN or privacy firewalls such as pi-hole while adding your device(s).
7. Add your Matter device to the home by scanning the Matter Code, or tap “Add Accessory” in the Home app.
   1. Instead of scanning, you can tap “More Options,” select the Matter device from the list, and enter the Matter Code.
8. Pray

Last resort of fix, is to delete your entire home and start over - I have 110 Matter enabled devices, so this is not an option I will choose lightly.

Hope this helps :)