The x86 only caught up because of process technology, less so due to technological innovation (RISCifying x86 architecture). DEC, HP and MIPS simply couldn't keep up with Intel, which had its own fabs. And this was at a time when fabs-for-hire with world-leading process technology like TSMC didn't yet exist.
Today, almost any fabless manufacturer can order world-class leading semiconductors from TSMC, just like Apple is doing now.
Drawback is that most RISC-V manufacturers are in China, which don't have access to TSMC's manufacturing technology. And Apple is heavily invested in ARM since it owns part of the technology.
Today, almost any fabless manufacturer can order world-class leading semiconductors from TSMC, just like Apple is doing now.
Drawback is that most RISC-V manufacturers are in China, which don't have access to TSMC's manufacturing technology. And Apple is heavily invested in ARM since it owns part of the technology.