A significant update has appeared on Google Maps for U.S. users. The Gulf of Mexico now shows as the Gulf of America, reflecting a recent executive order. This change follows an official directive signed by President Donald Trump, who also declared February 9 as Gulf of America Day.

Google, known for aligning with government-recognized geographical updates, has implemented this modification accordingly. However, the name change remains controversial, sparking reactions from both U.S. and international communities.

Google’s Statement on the Name Change

Google confirmed that the update depends on a user’s location. U.S.-based users will now see Gulf of America, while Mexican users will continue to see Gulf of Mexico. In all other regions, both names will appear, with Gulf of America placed in parentheses beneath Gulf of Mexico.

Instagram | nosybuzza | Google updates Gulf of America name based on location.

The company emphasized its commitment to following official government sources for geographical names. This policy aligns with previous updates, such as renaming locations based on recognized national and international changes.

Mexico’s Opposition to the Name Change

The decision has not been well received in Mexico. Claudia Sheinbaum, Mexico’s president, publicly expressed her disapproval. She sent an official letter to Google Maps, requesting the platform not to implement the new name.

Additionally, Sheinbaum made a bold statement regarding potential changes for other locations. “We are also going to ask for Mexican America to appear on the map,” she remarked.

While Mexico continues to challenge the decision, Google has not indicated any plans to reverse the change.

Apple Maps and Other Platforms Remain Unaffected

Interestingly, not all mapping services have followed suit. Apple Maps has not adopted the new designation, leading to mixed reactions among users. Some appreciate Apple’s decision to maintain the traditional name, while others believe tech companies should remain neutral and follow government policies.

Similarly, other web-based mapping applications have yet to update their geographical references. This inconsistency has created confusion, with different platforms showing different names for the same location.

U.S. Federal Aviation Administration’s Response

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) also addressed the name change. The agency confirmed changes to flight charts and data systems in an official statement on Monday.

The notice read:

"Please be advised that the FAA is in the process of updating our data and charts to show a name change from the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America and a name change from Denali to Mount McKinley."

This indicates broader changes in geographical naming conventions, possibly affecting various federal agencies and official documents.

Instagram | realtalkingfish | FAA confirms updates to Gulf of America name on flight charts.

Public Reaction and Ongoing Debate

The renaming of the Gulf of Mexico has sparked widespread debate. Supporters of the change view it as a patriotic decision, reinforcing American influence over the region. They believe renaming locations aligns with national identity and historical perspectives.

However, critics argue that altering well-established geographical names can create confusion. Some also see it as unnecessary political interference in internationally recognized designations.

Additionally, the change raises practical concerns. Many businesses, educational institutions, and tourism boards still refer to the area as the Gulf of Mexico. Transitioning to a new name could require updates across multiple industries.

Will Other Tech Companies Follow?

Google Maps leads the way in digital navigation, but it remains uncertain whether other major platforms will adopt the new name. Apple’s reluctance suggests that some companies may resist immediate changes.

If additional federal agencies adopt the name, pressure may increase on digital platforms to follow. However, international resistance—especially from Mexico—could influence how widely the change is implemented.

Opinions About the Gulf of America Update

As Google Maps users in the U.S. adjust to seeing Gulf of America, the conversation around digital mapping policies continues. While Google follows official government decisions, the broader implications of these changes remain up for debate.

The controversy surrounding this renaming highlights how digital tools shape public perception. Whether this change remains permanent or faces further revisions depends on ongoing discussions between governments, tech companies, and the public.