Apple Maps Plans To Rename Gulf Of Mexico, Following Google

Apple Maps will rename The Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America to adhere to executive orders made by President Donald Trump, as stated by Bloomberg. The company will also introduce the name change to users in other countries.

This change was part of a series of over 100 directives and executive actions signed on Inauguration Day. One of these orders included renaming the Gulf of Mexico, which is made up of the US, Cuba, and Mexico,  the Gulf of America. 

This came after Google made similar changes, leading Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum to write a letter asking Google Maps to reconsider its plan to rename the Gulf of Mexico.

Why is the Gulf of Mexico being renamed?

On January 24, 2025, The US Department of Interior said, “These changes reaffirm the Nation’s commitment to preserving the extraordinary heritage of the United States and ensuring that future generations of Americans celebrate the legacy of its heroes and historic assets.”

Google explained on X that the name would be updated once officially recognized in the US Geographic Names System, which could take several months or years. The name will only be changed on Google Maps for US citizens. Countries outside of the US will keep their current name.

Is Apple rolling back on DEI efforts?

Despite renaming the Gulf of Mexico, Apple has opposed a shareholder proposal to remove its DEI programs, as first reported by TechCrunch. 

Apple’s board of directors opposed a proposal by the National Center for Public Policy Research (a conservative think tank) to “consider abolishing its Inclusion & Diversity program, policies, department, and goals.”

In a proxy filing, Apple stated that the proposal was “unnecessary” as the company “already has a well-established compliance program” to guard against potential legal challenges. “We strive to create a culture of belonging where everyone can do their best work,” the company added.

Image: Future