---
title: Update Memory
description: Modify an existing memory by updating its content or metadata.
icon: "pen-to-square"
iconType: "solid"
---
# Keep Memories Accurate with Update
Mem0’s update operation lets you fix or enrich an existing memory without deleting it. When a user changes their preference or clarifies a fact, use update to keep the knowledge base fresh.
**Why it matters**
- Corrects outdated or incorrect memories immediately.
- Adds new metadata so filters and rerankers stay sharp.
- Works for both one-off edits and large batches (up to 1000 memories).
## Key terms
- **memory_id** – Unique identifier returned by `add` or `search` results.
- **text** / **data** – New content that replaces the stored memory value.
- **metadata** – Optional key-value pairs you update alongside the text.
- **timestamp** – Unix epoch (int/float) or ISO 8601 string to override the memory's timestamp.
- **batch_update** – Platform API that edits multiple memories in a single request.
- **immutable** – Flagged memories that must be deleted and re-added instead of updated.
## How the update flow works
Use `search` or dashboard inspection to capture the `memory_id` you want to change.
Call `update` (or `batch_update`) with new text and optional metadata. Mem0 overwrites the stored value and adjusts indexes.
Check the response or re-run `search` to ensure the revised memory appears with the new content.
## Single memory update (Platform)
```python Python
from mem0 import MemoryClient
client = MemoryClient(api_key="your-api-key")
memory_id = "your_memory_id"
client.update(
memory_id=memory_id,
text="Updated memory content about the user",
metadata={"category": "profile-update"},
timestamp="2025-01-15T12:00:00Z"
)
```
```javascript JavaScript
import MemoryClient from 'mem0ai';
const client = new MemoryClient({ apiKey: "your-api-key" });
const memory_id = "your_memory_id";
await client.update(memory_id, {
text: "Updated memory content about the user",
metadata: { category: "profile-update" },
timestamp: "2025-01-15T12:00:00Z"
});
```
Expect a confirmation message and the updated memory to appear in the dashboard almost instantly.
## Batch update (Platform)
Update up to 1000 memories in one call.
```python Python
from mem0 import MemoryClient
client = MemoryClient(api_key="your-api-key")
update_memories = [
{"memory_id": "id1", "text": "Watches football"},
{"memory_id": "id2", "text": "Likes to travel"}
]
response = client.batch_update(update_memories)
print(response)
```
```javascript JavaScript
import MemoryClient from 'mem0ai';
const client = new MemoryClient({ apiKey: "your-api-key" });
const updateMemories = [
{ memoryId: "id1", text: "Watches football" },
{ memoryId: "id2", text: "Likes to travel" }
];
client.batchUpdate(updateMemories)
.then(response => console.log('Batch update response:', response))
.catch(error => console.error(error));
```
## Update with Mem0 OSS
```python Python
from mem0 import Memory
memory = Memory()
memory.update(
memory_id="mem_123",
data="Alex now prefers decaf coffee",
)
```
```
```
OSS JavaScript SDK does not expose `update` yet—use the REST API or Python SDK when self-hosting.
## Tips
- Update both `text` **and** `metadata` together to keep filters accurate.
- Batch updates are ideal after large imports or when syncing CRM corrections.
- Immutable memories must be deleted and re-added instead of updated.
- Pair updates with feedback signals (thumbs up/down) to self-heal memories automatically.
**MCP Alternative**: With Mem0 MCP, AI agents can update their own memories when users correct information.
## Managed vs OSS differences
| Capability | Mem0 Platform | Mem0 OSS |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Update call | `client.update(memory_id, {...})` | `memory.update(memory_id, data=...)` |
| Batch updates | `client.batch_update` (up to 1000 memories) | Script your own loop or bulk job |
| Dashboard visibility | Inspect updates in the UI | Inspect via logs or custom tooling |
| Immutable handling | Returns descriptive error | Raises exception—delete and re-add |
## Put it into practice
- Review the Update Memory API reference for request/response details.
- Combine updates with Feedback Mechanism to automate corrections.
## See it live
- Support Inbox with Mem0 uses updates to refine customer profiles.
- AI Tutor with Mem0 demonstrates user preference corrections mid-course.
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