I think the point is that Apple's in the same league or better, and it doesn't have to compete with Intel in a fair fight. Intel has to work with every x86 pro

I think the point is that Apple's in the same league or better, and it doesn't have to compete with Intel in a fair fight. Intel has to work with every x86 program ever made (more or less) and in dozens of different environments. Apple only has to optimize its own stuff, and can change its mind on a whim.