iPhone nano rumors almost always hit a wall, mostly because of Apple's complete silence on the matter, as well as the questionable usability of such a device. Nevertheless, an iPhone nano is always a hot topic for gadget lovers, hence the revived rumor saying that a case manufacturer has already started producing sleeves for the device, anticipating its release. A Thai electronics shop is even selling knockoffs. At least one of the two is believed to have been tipped off on a new nano introduction.

A case manufacturer (XSKN) posted last week a small silicone case that will supposedly house an Apple iPhone nano. The company's website even lists the product (picture above) as a device. However, visitors of the site in question will be disappointed to see that the iPhone nano link leads to somewhat of a dead end, as the device is nowhere to be found.

However, while the listings do not offer any details about the nano, XSKN has previously leaked iPod specifications ahead of official announcements, World of Apple points out. Additionally, a MacRumors report even suggests that some of “Apple’s initial plans for Macworld may have been delayed,” further damping down rumors of a mini iPhone being in the works.

The discovery of iPhone nano knockoffs in Thailand does not prove one bit that a new, smaller handset is being developed in Apple's labs, but still adds fuel to the nano fire.

An eagle-eyed AppleInsider reader has shot a few photos of the devices that “mimic Apple's products as closely as possible and share not only the basic design, but the branding as well, in some cases directly copying the logo and the 'iPhone' labeling on the back,” as revealed by the pictures. Some application icons have actually been ripped directly from Apple's interface with no changes whatsoever.

We wouldn't want to burst anyone's bubble, but you shouldn't hold your breath for anything more than Snow Leopard (preview?) and desktop upgrades at Macworld 2009.