The difference here was, he didn't say "it was just a joke - you don't need to be offended" - which is a definite non-apology. He's saying "it was intended as

The difference here was, he didn't say "it was just a joke - you don't need to be offended" - which is a definite non-apology. He's saying "it was intended as a joke", but then goes on to deliver a sincere apology, taking responsibility and saying that there's no excuse for his behavior.