Walmart developing register listening device

BILLINGS, Mont. - (CNN) - A new Walmart patent means the retailer may someday use audio surveillance.

Locations already capture video for security purposes.

The company claims "a need exists" for more monitoring.

According to the patent, Walmart wants to use audio recordings to determine how their employees are performing.

The devices could be placed near cash registers to track transactions. Some people worry it could infringe on privacy.

"I would assume Walmart would have to put signage up, saying you are being recorded, not just visually but voice also,” Dennis Dinger said.

"Walmart is putting microphones everywhere. They've already got cameras everywhere and it's just the way the society seems to be trending these days. 'Big Brothers' everywhere -- not surprising, but I don't shop at Walmart so they won't get anything that we're saying, huh?" Heather Moos said.

The patent is called 'Listening to the Frontend.' It's unclear when, or if, it will be implemented.

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