Hello Dr Detroit,
There's been a few updates since the release of iOS 16, which you can check for to help troubleshoot by tapping Settings > General > Software Update.
If the issue persists after updating, then perhaps there's Bluetooth interference which is causing the behavior. Check out how to test for Bluetooth interference here: If the sound from your wireless headphones cuts out or is distorted - Apple Support
"Improve your Bluetooth connection
Your headphones communicate using Bluetooth, and a Bluetooth signal can be interfered with or weakened in some situations.
Your headphones might lose their connection more often with streaming audio than with content that is stored on your device.* With your device within a few feet of you, try to listen to music or other audio content that is stored on your device—not streamed—with your headphones. On your iOS or Android device, open the Music app. On a Mac with macOS Catalina, open the Music app. On a Mac with macOS Mojave or earlier, or on a PC, open iTunes. Then play a song that does not have the Download button next to it. Or tap the Download button to download the song.
If your headphones maintain their connection without distortion during this test, then here are a couple of things that can help in other situations:
- Keep your iPhone or other device close to you, so that no obstructions, like walls or floors, are between you and your device.
- If possible, move to a different place—in particular, move away from places with many people or a lot of Wi-Fi activity, poorly shielded cables, microwave ovens, and wireless speakers (or turn off the oven or speaker)."
If the issue isn't related to interference, then reach out to Apple Support for additional assistance with the behavior. You can use the following link to reach out: Contact - Official Apple Support
Kind regards.
