In the latest ChromeOS 131 update, Google is rolling out a new feature called Safety reset, which, as the name implies, will let you reset your Chromebook to a stable state. This option is for the times when you need to get rid of unwanted pop-ups or when you're having issues like network connectivity.
Prior to this new update, Chromebook users who wanted to reset their machine would need to do a Powerwash, which would factory reset a Chromebook to default settings and wipe any user data. This would ideally be used when selling or giving your Chromebook to someone else.
If you'd rather not wipe all your data, though, this new Safety reset setting in ChromeOS 131 might be a better option. When using Safety reset, it will reset Chrome settings and Chrome shortcuts, disable extensions, and delete cookies and other temporary site data. User data such as bookmarks, history, and saved passwords won't be affected when using Safety reset.
You can find the Safety reset option under Settings > Safety and Privacy. It can also be accessed using the keyboard shortcut, CTRL + Shift + Search + R.
In addition to Safety reset, ChromeOS 131 has a couple of other new features, including a new design for Quick Answers, which is a GenAI-powered reading assistant in ChromeOS, and also a new accessibility feature that will flash the screen when a new notification appears.
ChromeOS 131 is rolling out now over the coming days; Chromebook users should see it on their devices soon.
