There are some newer types of probiotics (called "spore-based") which claim better shelf stability (don't require refrigeration) and resistance (to populate further down the digestive system). But you're absolutely right, they tend to die off pretty quickly (be extra weary of ordering them online, especially during the summer if they're going to sit around in a hot delivery truck or mailbox!).

That is more around solving a different problem than shelf-stability, which is the fact that most probiotics targeting the intestines don't survive in great measure beyond the stomach.