Spokesman for both firms said their fees were in line with industry practice.

The most likely answer is that Apple wants more money for its patents than has been the standard industry practice.

For that reason, the decision today has little prospective importance in terms of changing current industry practice.

"This is a positive first step toward changing a dangerous industry practice," he said.

At least part of the answer lies in pharmaceutical industry practice.

Some workers, however, will continue to get stock options based on their job responsibilities and industry practice.

Someone who is familiar with industry practices and therefore can work independently as necessary.

Environmental and consumer groups say the announcement marks a significant break with industry practice.

He also loves producing something immediately, rather than six months in advance, which has become industry practice.

Their tails cannot be cut off either, an accepted industry practice.