WM6.x devices don't need "advertising" in that you don't generally advertise product soon to be totally replaced. Lets hope WP7 is marketable to casuals.
Verizon $30/month forced data plans is "smart business"
but really they upgraded Ozone which shipped at 6.1 with no promises (those came from microsoft & htc).
I think wm6.5.3 is VERY LIKELY myself from Verizon (perhaps discussed with WM7 in a few weeks) because of these reasons...
#1. Verizon's TP2 wm6.5 upgrade includes a better/newer manilla and is an upgraded from Imagios 6.5.
#2. Pressure from Microsoft to bolster Window Phone after WP7 is announced in two weeks. Improving the WP ecosystem & "low end devices" is in their best interest. This xmas Imagio will hopefully be a "low end" Windows Phone, but important nonetheless vs droid, palm, etc.
#3. Marketplace forces/competition make it a no-brainer.
#4. Verizon is NOT getting a CDMA iPhone (see LTE nationwide 2012) so it needs good smartphones in all varieties (and corporate)
#5. Smartphones are very popular with said data plans and poised for GROWTH.
possible #6. If another carrier gets Imagio/Diamond2 it will no doubt come with 6.5.3+ making Verizon look silly.