Google Maps Flip-Flops on Lake Name, Sparks Backlash with Ontarians

Google has updated its Maps service to display 'Lake America' for users within the United States, while those outside the country will still see 'Lake Ontario'. This change follows updates from the U.S. Geographic Names Information System (GNIS) and is part of Google's long-standing policy for bodies of water with names that vary by country.

The move has sparked backlash, particularly from Ontario Premier Doug Ford, who compared it to a 'Saturday Night Live' skit during an appearance on ABC's 'This Week'. He stated: 'No one's going to call it Lake of America. It's been Lake Ontario for hundreds of years. It's going to continue being Lake Ontario.'

Interestingly, Mapquest has announced that it will not change its maps to reflect the name change, tweeting: 'We're not changing the name of Lake Ontario. Name it whatever you want at your leisure.'