The fictional genetic memory machine in the Assassin's Creed series is called the Animus.
The Animus allows a user to experience ancestral memories encoded in genetic material. In the series' modern-day framework, this technology lets characters explore historical lives without physically traveling through time. The player usually controls an ancestor while a modern subject operates or is connected to the machine.
Desmond Miles is the best-known early Animus subject. Through his genetic connection to ancestors such as Altaïr, Ezio, and Connor, he helps the Assassins investigate the past and locate information needed in the present. Later games introduce newer Animus users and variations of the technology.
Abstergo Industries develops and uses Animus technology, but Abstergo is the organization, not the machine. Helix is a later entertainment-oriented system and brand within the modern storyline. Eagle Vision is an Assassin ability that highlights people and objects; it is not a device. These terms are closely linked, which makes the distinction important.