Notice periods are still a thing. And in many places outside of the US they aren't just a thing you do out of courtesy (sometimes much longer than 2 weeks too). And even notice periods didn't exist, what's stopping the company from laying off new hires anyway?
Notice periods are called extended breaks outside the USA. I've done them before and I put my feet up at my desk and let time pass. If you are a friend and worthwhile colleague then I will happily help you and my immediate team. I'm not there to screw up my teammates.
