The best April Fools’ Day pranks of 2011

In 1868 Canada celebrated April Fools’ Day for the first time.

Since then many of us have fallen victim to pranks that range from the simple (like a “use other door” sign on the only door available to enter your office building), to the elaborate (see Richard Branson’s contribution below), to the downright inadvisable (note: proposing to your girlfriend as an April Fools’ Day prank is never a good idea).

Here’s a round-up of our favourite pranks of 2011:

Gmail Motion

On Friday Google launched yet another amazing tool, and technophiles everywhere couldn’t wait to get started.

Gmail Motion allows you to send emails without the use of a keyboard or mouse – all you need is your body, a webcam, and no sense of shame. Gmail Motion claims to interpret your physical movements and turn them into actionable commands.

Users watch a tutorial that details the tool’s motion guide. Google says "movements are designed to be simple and intuitive for people of all skill levels". For instance to reply to an email simply point backward with your thumb. To reply to all, point backward with both thumbs.

Once you’re up to speed on the motion guide, click to download, and to the disappointment of many, it’s revealed that this tool doesn’t actually exist.

Well, the joke’s on you Google, because people would probably use this daily.

Richard Branson buys Pluto

In a press release on the Virgin website the company announced that mega-millionaire Sir Richard Branson had purchased Pluto, and plans to have it reinstated as a planet.

The press release reads, “Sir Richard Branson is setting his sights on the final frontier in his latest business venture announced today. In a universal first Sir Richard has revealed that he has bought the former planet of Pluto for an undisclosed sum.”

The new venture will build off the already established Virgin Galactic arm of the business, and furthering the tycoon’s quest toward world dominance.

1911 Viral Videos

As part of their 100th anniversary celebration, YouTube took time Friday to highlight some of the lesser known viral videos circulating online.

The website reads, “One hundred years ago today, these moving pictures were the finest in the land. Hooray!”

Video spoofs include “Flugelhorn Feline,” “Buggy Intruder,” and “The Irksome Citrus.”

Angry Bird Pork Rinds

For those of you who are addicted to playing Angry Birds on your mobile, there is a new salty snack that may be just as addictive. On Friday ThinkGeek.com launched their new product, Angry Bird Pork Rinds.

The website reads, “Angry Birds Pork Rinds are the ultimate in high protein snacking. Since the only other green meat we’ve encountered has been a breakfast meat paired with green eggs, we’re calling these "The Other Green Meat."

What’s your favourite April Fools’ Day prank? Let us know by commenting below.