diff --git a/src/atocore/memory/service.py b/src/atocore/memory/service.py
index 2979f50..34241e3 100644
--- a/src/atocore/memory/service.py
+++ b/src/atocore/memory/service.py
@@ -413,8 +413,17 @@ def get_memories_for_context(
     if query_tokens is not None:
         pool = _rank_memories_for_query(pool, query_tokens)
 
+    # Per-entry cap prevents a single long memory from monopolizing
+    # the band. With 16 p06 memories competing for ~700 chars, an
+    # uncapped 530-char overview memory fills the entire budget before
+    # a query-relevant 150-char memory gets a slot. The cap ensures at
+    # least 2-3 entries fit regardless of individual memory length.
+    max_entry_chars = 250
     for mem in pool:
-        entry = f"[{mem.memory_type}] {mem.content}"
+        content = mem.content
+        if len(content) > max_entry_chars:
+            content = content[:max_entry_chars - 3].rstrip() + "..."
+        entry = f"[{mem.memory_type}] {content}"
         entry_len = len(entry) + 1
         if entry_len > available - used:
             continue