Tech Desk 
Dec 15, 2024
Google unveiled the launch of ChromeOS M131 to non-beta users, bringing with it a handy “Safety reset” feature, allowing Chromebook users to reset their laptops without totally wiping them.
The update rolled out a new “Flash notifications” accessibility option to help those who might not otherwise easily hear or view them.
A safety reset will clear the slate if you’re experiencing computer virus-like behaviour like unusual pop-ups. But where Powerwash is a full factory reset, Safety reset preserves local data and apps, along with things like bookmarks and saved passwords.
Additionally, Google noted that users can call up the Safety reset dialogue box directly by pressing CTRL + Shift + Search + R, while you can find it in the “Safety and privacy” settings menu or by searching Settings or Launcher for keywords like “Pop-up,” “Spam,” or “Virus.”
The new Flash notifications setting, available in accessibility settings under “Audio and captions,” provides an additional visual notification indicator to those who might otherwise miss them because they’re hard of hearing or use screen magnification to read the content.
