I almost want my next car to have a physical key, but a digital one. Back after mechanical keys but before wireless entry/start, there was a short period where you had to plug the entire keyfob into the dash to start the car... I want that back.
Mechanical keys have the "photograph" problem (i.e. a single photograph can be used to reproduce them). Wireless start has the wireless hacking problem (i.e. if you broadcast, that can be intercepted/manipulated/etc). Digital keys have neither of these, and can utilise real challenge/response protocols since the keyfob can be powered by the car while authenticating.
I will say I don't know if wireless entry will ever be secure. Too many technical problems to overcome, soon we'll be reproducing the military's channel hopping.
The mechanical keys used in VWs today can not be reproduced with photographing. They have non-standard cut-ins on both sides and also activate magnetical bolts inside the lock.
Mechanical keys have the "photograph" problem (i.e. a single photograph can be used to reproduce them). Wireless start has the wireless hacking problem (i.e. if you broadcast, that can be intercepted/manipulated/etc). Digital keys have neither of these, and can utilise real challenge/response protocols since the keyfob can be powered by the car while authenticating.
I will say I don't know if wireless entry will ever be secure. Too many technical problems to overcome, soon we'll be reproducing the military's channel hopping.