Four of the biggest technology firms - Apple, Google, Intel and Adobe - have settled a class action case alleging they conspired to hold down salaries.

The case alleged that the firms agreed not to poach staff from each other, which it claimed prevented workers from getting better job offers.

The firms did not disclose the details of the settlement.

The US lawsuit had claimed $3bn (£1.8bn) in damages on behalf of more than 64,000 workers at the four firms.

If the companies had lost the case and damages were awarded, they could have tripled to $9bn under US antitrust laws.

The case was scheduled for hearing next month and was being closely watched for details about the alleged pact between the firms.

(BBC)