All Aboard the VR/AR Train, Business Class

Though augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) companies may be disappointed with consumers' sluggish adoption of the tech, they've found enthusiastic customers in enterprises.

Take the U.S.' biggest private sector employer, Walmart. As WaPo reports, the company is using VR to find its next middle managers by simulating how interviewees handle everyday interactions, from angry customers to yodeling kids. The retailer started experimenting with the technology last year, and has since deployed at least 17,000 headsets. It clearly believes a hard VR embrace = better employee soft skills.

This isn't a one-off case study: Renault Trucks, BAE Systems, Intel, and Airbus use VR/AR for training. The NYPD prepares cops for active shooter situations using VR. And the U.S. Army has awarded Microsoft a $480 million contract to supply it with up to 100,000 HoloLens AR headsets.

Bottom line: With deeper pockets and clearer use cases, the Suits (and Uniforms) are paying a premium for higher-end VR/AR gear...and buying in bulk.