I've long thought that it might be interesting for an interview model to emerge where a trial period of weeks/months is the expectation. I think this might resolve much of the current frustration with programming inteviews. But I also recognize that doing so would be significantly different from how essentially all other companies operate, and if it weren't communicated clearly enough, could result in negative PR for a firm trying such an approach.

Yes, and if they pull that trigger too frequently they'll earn a reputation for firing people, which isn't a great way to attract talent.