Google Maps has renamed Lake Ontario to Lake America for users in the United States.

      Google Maps now refers to Lake Ontario as Lake America for users in the United States, following an update to the US Geographic Names Information System. Canadian users still see the traditional name, while users from other regions see both names on the map. Since April 2023, Google Maps has been classified as a very large online platform in the EU, which requires it to evaluate systemic risks, including their impact on civic discourse.

      The change, announced by Alphabet, means that American users will see Lake America. The update originated from a database change, which occurred on August 27, after President Trump suggested renaming the lake. Alphabet stated, "These updates follow our long-standing policy for bodies of water with names that differ from country to country."

      Not all platforms have adopted this change; MapQuest entirely rejected it and created a generator that allows users to create their own names for the lake, while Apple Maps continues to display Lake Ontario for its American users. This situation isn't without precedent; last year, the Gulf of Mexico was referred to as the Gulf of America under the same policy.

      It is important to note that a government can influence what the most widely used map reflects by altering its naming database. Europe has similar mechanisms in place, as geographical names are a harmonized data theme under the INSPIRE directive, managed by national mapping agencies. However, no European government has utilized this capability in the same manner, which reflects restraint rather than a lack of ability.

      Additionally, regulatory aspects come into play. Google Maps has been recognized as a very large online platform in the EU since April 2023. This status comes with responsibilities, including the need to evaluate systemic risks related to the design and operation of its service, particularly concerning potential negative effects on civic discourse and public safety. The Commission enforces these responsibilities; for instance, Poland has requested a €250 million fine against Meta for scam advertising under the same framework.

      To date, there has not been an inquiry into the mapping issue. A product that displays differing geographical information for two countries based on a single database entry has not previously had to justify its approach in Brussels.