As computer technology continues its rapid development, electronic (digital) maps and atlases become more and more important part of cartographic production. New technologies also open completely new possibilities for visualization of information communicated by maps. 3D models and animations are two examples of such possibilities. Due to the new visualizations maps become more informative, dynamic, mobile.
In the paper we attempt to develop classification of digital maps and analyze their specific sign systems and methods of visualization from cartosemiotical point of view. We also discuss the main specifics of design and style of such maps and describe the concept of their "language" in the context of communication of geographic information to the modern society.
