Apple has made a significant change in its Maps app by renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America. This update comes in response to an executive order issued by President Donald Trump on his first day in office, ensuring that Apple’s platform now aligns with the official map adjustments mandated by the US government. Initially, the update will be available to users in the United States, with plans for a broader rollout globally.
In contrast to Apple, Google Maps had already implemented this naming change, while other mapping services such as Bing Maps and MapQuest continue to use the old name. This update affects devices like the iPhone, iPad, and Mac, and it coincides with Apple’s recent launch of a web-based version of its Maps app, which aims to offer competitive functionality alongside Google Maps.
The decision has garnered a variety of responses. Some Republican lawmakers, for instance, have criticized Apple for what they perceive as a delay, favoring the rapid update made by Google. At the same time, the move has attracted criticism from users and international bodies alike; notably, Mexico’s government has expressed strong opposition to the unilateral renaming of a body of water that both nations share, raising concerns over the influence of political pressures on such decisions.