Apple's rumored AirPods Studio over-ear headphones may not be released at the October 13 Apple event to unveil iPhone 12. And if released, they could be the most expensive noise-canceling headphones ever.

According to reliable tech leaker Jon Prosser, a source said that the AirPods Studio will not go into mass production until October 20, which Prosser speculated could mean that the headphones will not be announced at the iPhone 12 launch event. He speculated. Prosser then claimed that the headphones would retail for a shockingly expensive $599, and that a sports-oriented model would be available for $350.

This $599 price tag would make the AirPods Studio the most expensive noise-canceling headphones. The Sony WH-1000xM4 and Bose 700 are $399 and $349, respectively, about $200 less expensive, but these are the best noise-canceling headphones available today. The $249 price difference between the premium and sport models is also a big surprise and makes one wonder what technology is packed into the former.

The AirPods Studio is expected to include clever features such as powerful active noise cancellation, Siri integration, and the ability to detect which way the headphones are worn and properly balance the sound output. A custom equalizer is also expected to be included, allowing users to carefully adjust the sound of their headphones on their iOS or Mac devices.

Prosser also speculated that the AirPods Studio may not even make it to the launch event unless the headphones are announced at the November event where Apple is rumored to unveil its first ARM-based MacBook. Alternatively, the AirPods Studio could be announced in a press release, which Apple has done before with its latest MacBook Air and other products.

If they can provide cleverly designed software that allows AirPods Studio to be fine-tuned to each user and what they are listening to, Apple could be a winner. But the AirPods Studio are ridiculously expensive at $599, and it would take a lot of skill to get shoppers to consider skipping Bose or Sony. Stay tuned for more revelations about Apple's headphones in the coming weeks.