The rumor of a Facebook browser ultimately led to the earlier rumors of Facebook building its own phone. Is it back on the drawing board now? According to the New York Times Bits blog, those old Facebook phone rumors are making a comeback.

Facebook employees and engineers familiar with the matter reportedly say that the firm is now hiring former Apple engineers, specifically ones that worked on the iPhone and iPad. Zuckerberg did say that mobile is the company's top focus.

"Mark is worried that if he doesn't create a mobile phone in the near future that Facebook will simply become an app on other mobile platforms." Reports suggest that the rumored device is still in its infancy, and there's no word on form factor or OS.

Take it with a pinch of salt, but really, believe that it could happen.

[The Next Web, New York Times (Bits), Engadget]