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Google Maps has introduced a controversial name change for one of North America's most recognisable lakes. Users located in the United States will now see "Lake America" on maps instead of the previous "Lake Ontario". Google explains that the update results from the company's current policy on geographic names and data provided by local authorities.
Google Maps shows different names depending on the country
The change was introduced after last week's executive order, and the US GNIS system updated the lake's name on 27 August. Google confirmed the update in a statement, explaining that users in the US will see "Lake America". In Canada the situation is different; there Google Maps still shows only "Lake Ontario". Meanwhile, users in the rest of the world will see the label "Lake Ontario (Lake America)". The difference can also be checked using a VPN by changing the location from which the user is connecting. Google cites its policy of updating place names based on data from local authorities. The company took a similar approach in February 2025, when Google Maps showed "Gulf of America" instead of "Gulf of Mexico". This time the change also prompted reactions on both sides of the border.
Canada does not intend to change the lake's name
Canada has confirmed it will not use the name "Lake America". Prime Minister Mark Carney said the name "Lake Ontario" is more than 400 years old and pre-dates the formation of both Canada and the United States. He also pointed out that the term comes from the Wendat word "Ontari’io", which, among other things, means "the lake is beautiful, the lake is big". MapQuest also decided not to change it; the company even announced plans to create a generator allowing users to give the lake their own names. Apple Maps currently does not show the designation "Lake America" either. Google must also reckon with possible opposition from users. After a large wave of criticism over the name "Gulf of America", the company limited the ability to add new reviews for that place in 2025. In the case of "Lake America" no such restriction has been introduced so far.
Google Maps has renamed Lake Ontario to 'Lake America' for users in the United States. In Canada the name 'Lake Ontario' still applies, while in other countries Google shows both names. The change is linked to an update to the US GNIS following an executive order. Canada does not intend to adopt the new name, and Apple Maps and MapQuest have also not added it to their maps.
source: 9to5google
