Microsoft Follows Google on a Controversial Decision
Microsoft has updated its Bing Maps service to rename the "Gulf of Mexico" to the "Gulf of America" for users in the United States. This change aligns Bing Maps with recent updates from other major mapping platforms, including Google Maps and Apple Maps, following an executive order by President Donald Trump to rename the body of water.
In a statement, a Microsoft spokesperson said, "We are committed to providing users with accurate and up-to-date information. In accordance with established product policies, we are updating Bing Maps to reflect the Geographic Names Information System’s nomenclature in the United States, which includes changing the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America in the US."
Google Maps has implemented a location-based approach, displaying "Gulf of America" for users in the U.S., "Gulf of Mexico" for users in Mexico, and both names for users in other countries. Apple Maps has also updated its labeling to "Gulf of America" for U.S. users, with plans for a global rollout.
These changes have sparked international debate. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has threatened legal action against Google, arguing that the U.S. government's authority to rename the body of water is limited to its territorial waters.
Public opinion in the United States appears to be largely against the renaming. A Marquette University poll found that 71% of respondents opposed the change, with only 29% in favor. As mapping platforms update their services to reflect the new nomenclature, users may notice these changes across various applications. The renaming has ignited discussions about national identity, international relations, and the role of technology companies in geopolitical matters.
RECOMMENDED NEWS

Cookie Pledge: EU admits that cookie banners are annoying, suggests remedy
The European Union plans to make changes to the "cookie law" that it introduced several years ago t...

Microsoft needs to make Windows 11's Recall feature opt-in
As it stands right now, the new Recall AI feature of Windows 11 will be enabled by default when it ...

Brave reports record month for Browser and Search
When it comes to the market share of browsers on the desktop, things may appear static. There is Go...

NordVPN’s New Tech Claims to Outsmart VPN Blockers—Here’s How
NordVPN has introduced a new protocol, NordWhisper, which it claims can help users bypass VPN block...

Windows 11 Update accidentally uninstalls Copilot app
Microsoft has acknowledged significant issues related to the recent KB5053598 update for Windows 11...

How to disable Copilot in Microsoft Word
If you do use Microsoft Word, you may have noticed the "draft with Copilot" icon that Microsoft add...
Comments on "Microsoft Follows Google on a Controversial Decision" :