There are two different categories of "Hacks", and your article doesn't keep them separate. Category 1 is what is know as a SIM Hack. These hacks enable the iPhone to be used on other networks, like T-Mobile. I expect that Apple has a contract that requires them to try to block these hacks. I understand why they would want to block these.

The second category of hacks involves installing 3rd party software on an iPhone. These should be allowed. Apple has stated that they will not try to block these applications, but they won't go out of their way to allow them either. These 3rd party apps add a lot to the iPhone experience.

The next software update for the iPhone will show what Apple's position really is. I hope I can still install 3rd party apps afterwards. If it appers that Apple has gone out of their way to stop these apps, I expect that Apple will get bombarded with angry letters, just like after the price drop.