Long-term memory refers to a system’s ability to store and retrieve information across sessions. It is typically implemented at the application level and functions similarly to an external database or knowledge store that can be queried or updated.

This memory category often requires user authentication to ensure it is scoped out correctly. If it is not configured for user authentication, then it is tied to the global memory, which can cause cross-user data leaks.

Why is long-term memory for context retention important in large language models and applications?

Long-term memory enables persistent context retention so that the large language model (LLM) or application can recall facts, preferences, or prior interactions over time. Unlike short-term memory, long-term memory conversation history can exist across multiple sessions. It is essential for personalization across sessions, allowing the model to offer more relevant, consistent, and tailored responses over time.