It’s now Gulf of America for US Google Maps users

Google Maps now displays the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America for users in the United States. The change follows an executive order signed by President Donald Trump on his first day in office directing authorities to update official maps.

The Department of the Interior confirmed the update on Sunday after the US Geological Survey modified its Geographic Names Information System (GNIS) records.

Users in Mexico still see the name Gulf of Mexico, while international users see both names. Google stated that it follows a longstanding policy of applying official government name changes.

This isn’t Google’s first dual-labeling decision. It uses the name Persian Gulf (Arabian Gulf) for disputed waters between Iran and Arab nations. 

The change has sparked debate, with critics calling it politically motivated.