The Animus is the Assassin’s Creed device that lets users relive genetic memories.
In the series’ modern-day storyline, the Animus reads inherited memories encoded in a person’s DNA. A user can then experience the lives of ancestors, allowing the games to move between a contemporary framework and historical adventures.
Desmond Miles first uses the machine under Abstergo in the original Assassin’s Creed. Later versions and related technologies are used by other characters, including Layla Hassan. The device provides the fictional explanation for exploring historical periods without treating the modern character as physically traveling through time.
The Apple of Eden is a Piece of Eden, not the memory machine. Eagle Vision is a perception ability, and the Bleeding Effect describes memories or skills affecting a user after repeated Animus exposure.