I would have though Apple would be installing its own server network to handle the workload rather than farming it out. At the same time, Apple may be focusing on the iCloud service and meeting user needs than building out its own network. If iCloud proves to be really popular we may see Apple roll out its own network down the road.
I never thought Apple would stuff that North Carolina data center full of Apple-branded gear. The company has never had a strong enterprise presence outside of educational markets. For iCloud to be successful — and for Apple to overcome the MobileMe stigma — the service has to run well, from day one. Third-party hardware is key to that goal.