Hi MJKleiman,
Thank you for reaching out to Microsoft Community.
May I know the make and model of your phone and its OS? Android, Windows or IOS?
Please make sure to Update your Surface Earbuds first including the case then observe if issue persist. You may check if the Earbuds is up to date through the Surface Audio app > About. Please check under Firmware, it should be 3.0.0.5.
If this answer your question, we highly encourage you to inform our Community by clicking on Yes or marking my post as an answer. This will help other members who may have the same issue as you. Otherwise, don't hesitate to update us so we can further assist you.
Kind Regards,
Marrion Y.