Key facts
- MapQuest's app downloads surged after it refused to rename Lake Ontario to 'Lake America'.
- The company's decision followed a presidential executive order and similar changes by Apple and Google Maps.
- MapQuest's app reached top rankings in U.S. and Canadian app stores.
- Canadian officials have opposed the renaming of Lake Ontario.
- President Trump's order came amid escalating trade tensions with Canada.
MapQuest has experienced a significant surge in app downloads after announcing it would not comply with President Trump's executive order to rename Lake Ontario to 'Lake America.' The company stated it would maintain the familiar name for its users, a stance that has resonated with hundreds of thousands of people, propelling MapQuest to top rankings in app stores in both the U.S. and Canada. This move contrasts with Apple Maps and Google Maps, which have adopted the new designation for U.S. users. The renaming initiative by President Trump, amid escalating trade tensions with Canada, has faced strong opposition from Canadian officials, who have vowed not to adopt the new name.