Apple has officially updated its Maps application to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America. The change follows an executive order signed by U.S. President Donald Trump on January 20, 2025, and pressure from Republican lawmakers.
Apple’s Initial Hesitation
At first, Apple hesitated to implement the name change fully. The company initially displayed “Gulf of America” only when users searched for the term, while the standard name remained on maps. However, after the U.S. Board on Geographic Names (BGN) updated its official database, Apple proceeded with the full transition.
Global Rollout
Apple plans to roll out the change globally, but it remains unclear how it will appear in different regions. Google Maps, in contrast, has taken a more cautious approach. While U.S. users see “Gulf of America,” international users see both names, with “Gulf of America” in parentheses.
Backlash and Criticism
The decision has sparked significant backlash. Historians and geographers argue that a single nation should not unilaterally rename international bodies of water. The Mexican government has also voiced strong opposition, stating that the U.S. lacks the authority to rename a body of water outside its jurisdiction.
Political Implications
The move aligns with the Trump administration’s nationalist policies, which have sought to rebrand historical landmarks and locations with American-centric names. Some critics argue that Apple’s decision to comply with the name change could set a precedent for politically motivated alterations in digital mapping.
Uncertain Future
For now, Apple users in the U.S. will see the Gulf of America label, while international users might still encounter the original name. As debates continue, it remains to be seen whether Apple will reconsider or if further adjustments will be made based on public response.
