The larger screen resolution, faster processor, increased memory, etc. are not rumored. These specifications are fact. With that said, increased battery life is not one of these so-called facts. Quite the contrary.
As for the LTE implementation, considering these new networks won't even go up in a widely usable space for another 2-3 years (~2010), I wouldn't expect anything for a while. The next major device enhancement from Verizon should likely be another hybrid device, except this one should support domestic EV-DO (and it's higher revision successors, Rev A and Rev B) and international HSDPA (and it's higher revision successor, HSUPA and HSPA). This is pure speculation, but I think when the time comes, I should be right. You may see an interim device before the end of the year, but I definitely wouldn't expect anything from RIM based on Qualcomm's new chipsets to be released until a very optimistic mid-2009 (the chipsets should be available in 3Q/4Q).