Apple has renamed Lake Ontario as “Lake America” on its Maps application for users in the United States, following an executive order issued by President Donald Trump.
The change means users accessing Apple Maps in the US will see the body of water labelled “Lake America,” while users in Canada will continue to see its traditional name, “Lake Ontario.” Google Maps has reportedly adopted a similar approach, although Apple has not publicly commented on the decision. MapQuest, meanwhile, has indicated that it will retain the original name.
The renaming comes amid strained relations between the United States and Canada, particularly over trade disputes and tariffs. The issue has attracted attention on both sides of the border, with critics questioning the decision to alter the long-established geographical name.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford has openly rejected the change, with the provincial government installing a sign reading, “Lake Ontario. Now and Always.” The development has added another layer to the ongoing tensions between Washington and Ottawa.
