Virtual memory

The memory palace concept focuses on the brain’s ability to map physical spaces to aid the memorising of non-visual information. A palace is created by imagining a route through a familiar space and populating it with objects that are tied to specific thoughts or ideas. The creator can then retrace the path in their mind to recall the information in the correct order. The tool is often used to aid the learning of new languages or to help people memorise speeches.

Macunx VR enables users to create and explore digital memory palaces. Three separate modes teach users how to design bespoke palaces, organise complex subjects into images and build palaces for others to use, respectively.

‘Few people are familiar with the concept of a memory palace and fewer still have actually built one,’ founder Aaron Ralby told WIRED. ‘With virtual reality (VR), we can show people how memory palaces work in great detail.’