ChatGPT Memory · ChatGPT’s user memory
ChatGPT’s memory is the feature that lets the assistant retain preferences and information from past conversations, saved memories or other sources in order to personalize its answers. It differs from parametric memory, acquired when the model is trained.
Standalone definition · 38 words
What sources does it use?
According to OpenAI’s help center, and depending on plan and region, it can draw on past chats, saved memories, custom instructions, library files and connected apps. ChatGPT decides which information is relevant to a response: memory does not retain everything.
What is the impact on GEO?
OpenAI states that memory can personalize web searches: a location or dietary preferences can refine a restaurant query. Two users can therefore trigger different searches and sources for the same prompt, which reinforces volatility and limits the value of a single reading.
How do you handle it?
For visibility audits, use an account without memory or a non-personalized temporary chat: OpenAI states that temporary chats do not create or update memories. Users stay in control under Settings, Personalization, Memory.
Frequently asked questions
Does memory change the sources cited?
It can modify the search query and therefore the sources retrieved, according to OpenAI’s description of web search personalization.
Is it the same as parametric memory?
No. Parametric memory is written into the model’s weights, while ChatGPT memory is an account-level personalization layer.
Related terms
Further reading
- Profound vs Semrush AI Visibility Toolkit: which really tracks your AI visibility
- ← Back to the GEO glossary (114 terms)