U.S. Government Renames Lake Ontario as Lake America on Google Maps, Sparking Diplomatic Tensions and a Boost for MapQuest

Following an executive order from President Donald Trump, Google Maps now displays “Lake America” for U.S. users, while Canadian users retain the original “Lake Ontario” name. Users in other regions see both names. However, Apple Maps and MapQuest have not implemented the change, and MapQuest’s refusal has driven a surge in its app downloads, propelling it to the top of the U.S. App Store rankings.

Google explained that the rename aligns its mapping data with the U.S. Geographic Names Information System (GNIS), which has officially adopted the name “Lake America.” Consequently, users may see “Lake Ontario,” “Lake America,” or both, depending on location and the mapping service employed.

Google Maps applies the new name exclusively to users within the United States. In Canada the lake continues to be labeled “Lake Ontario.” Users in other countries, such as France, are presented with both “Lake Ontario” and “Lake America” options.

Apple Maps and MapQuest have retained the original “Lake Ontario” designation. MapQuest has taken a public stand against the rename, pledging not to adopt the new name. This defiance has resulted in a notable increase in its usage, propelling the 30‑year‑old mapping service to the top of the U.S. Apple App Store download charts.

The naming controversy adds to an already tense bilateral relationship, as President Trump continues to intensify trade disputes with Canada. He has used social media to promote “Lake America,” posting AI‑generated images that mock Canada and celebrate the new name. One illustration shows Canada geese with Trump‑style blond hair defending the lake, while another features Trump replacing a “Lake Ontario” sign with his preferred name.

Canadian authorities have dismissed and ridiculed the rename. Ontario Premier Doug Ford responded by erecting a large sign overlooking the lake, inscribed with “Lake Ontario now and always” in both English and French.

President Trump’s effort to rename geographic features is not his first. Last year he directed the Gulf of Mexico to be called the “Gulf of America.” Google applied the new name to U.S. users while keeping the original designation for other regions.

U.S. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum reported that President Trump has directly contacted Apple regarding compliance with the executive order. It remains uncertain whether Apple will follow Google’s example in adopting the new name.

Vedika Bahl explains in Truth or Fake.

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