patrick.net

Amazon is considering launching drones that patrol neighbourhoods and could even call the police if they spot something amiss, according to a patent.

The company may set up a subscription service for worried homeowners that means its delivery aircrafts fly overhead looking for broken windows, graffiti or a fire.

Its drones will be able to take photos or record videos - sparking fears they could be used to collect data Big Brother-style.

In an apparent attempt to quell such fears, the patent states drone footage will obscure adjacent properties.

It will also require proof of ownership of the object or property being monitored, as well as permission from others living nearby, for example in an apartment block.