Cupertino, California, June 8 (Reuters) - Stephen Nellis and Kenrick Kay

Apple on Monday unveiled AI-powered improvements to its Siri voice assistant, including enhanced voice recognition and a standalone app, launching a long-awaited update to its smart assistant that the iPhone maker has been developing for the past two years.

The program, dubbed Siri AI, was unveiled at Apple's annual Worldwide Developers Conference at its headquarters in Cupertino, California. Apple stated that the program possesses what it called "broad world knowledge," enabling it to provide users with more detailed information from the internet when answering any query.

Apple officials said users will also be able to return to a previous conversation with Siri, which will be able to access information such as the address of a friend sent in a message, even if that information cannot be officially saved.

"Truly useful AI should focus on you and your needs," said Craig Federighi, Apple's head of software.

He added, "This means integrating artificial intelligence deeply into the products you use every day, connecting it to your personal context and the applications you rely on, and designing it with privacy in mind at every step. This is our vision for Apple Intelligence."

Apple is falling behind in the AI race.

Apple is seeking to close the gap with rivals, such as Microsoft and Alphabet's Google, who have moved more quickly to integrate artificial intelligence into everyday computing tasks.

The company announced today that Siri AI will feature a new voice experience, enabling the assistant to speak in a more expressive and interactive manner. It also stated that the new software will be available on iPads and that it is still working to bring the software to its smartwatches.

Apple indicated that Siri AI will not be available "initially" in the European Union on iPhones and iPads, and will not be available in China at all, until the company completes its regulatory procedures.

Apple stated that photos and searches conducted using Siri AI will be saved in a new standalone app available on iPhones, iPads, and Macs, and that the software will be compatible with Apple's cloud computing technology.

The company confirmed that it will begin offering the revamped Siri in English, adding that other languages will be added "quickly." Apple did not disclose a more detailed timeline.

The company also said that Apple's new iOS 27 operating system will be compatible with iPhone 11 models, adding that the next version of Mac OS will be called Golden Gate.

* New updates for child safety

Apple also today unveiled several updates to its child safety features.

The company said the new parental control tools will automatically allow children access only to apps approved by their parents. It added that it will introduce a new feature called "Browsing Request" that requires children to obtain permission for each new website they visit.

Apple also reported that it is adding new features to automatically blur violent images in messaging apps and notify parents, building on previous tools that took such steps regarding images with pornographic content.

The company said it is working with the American Academy of Pediatrics to develop a guide for parents to help them establish healthy digital habits for their children.