Jimmy,
Couldn't agree more. The MSFP will only be released through normal device upgrades. Most of us probably suspected it but didnt wanna face it. I think the "normal" chain is something like this: MS (AKU2 with MSFP) -> OEM (HTC) -> carrier/operator (iMate, o2, orange, Qtek). Each step in the chain needs to do their implementations and testing and these things takes a lot of time. I don't think we will see it in a official device upgrade prior to January or February. It's a killer feature and I think it should have been better synchronized (Easy for me to point fingers ;-)
There's allways a chance that you have been a good boy and will have it in your christmas stocking. And wish for Microsoft Update incorporates a locally connected wm5 device to their services another christmas.
Best regards, Charlie