Tom Wehl
Software Developer · Brisbane, Australia
Building free, purposeful software that brings people together in the real world.
The Person Behind the App
Hi I'm Tom, a software developer based in Brisbane, Australia. I built MATES because I was genuinely frustrated with the state of party apps. Every option I found was either locked behind a subscription, filled with intrusive ads, or so generic that it added nothing to the social experience. One night after receiving a subscription payment for party game free trial I forgot to cancel I decided to just build my own free game.
MATES started as a personal project, something I wanted to use at my own gatherings. But as I shared it with friends and watched complete strangers open up, laugh together, and form real connections through the app, I realised it was worth sharing with the world.
I am passionate about building software that actually matters. Not another AI buzzword Clone. Not another subscription trap. Just a well-crafted tool that solves a real problem and is accessible to everyone, regardless of their budget.
Principles That Drive Every Decision
Free Software for Everyone
I believe the best software should be accessible to everyone, not locked behind paywalls. MATES will always be free because connection should never have a price tag.
Solving Real Problems
I am not interested in building the next trendy AI wrapper or another clone of something that already exists. I build things that solve genuine problems I have experienced firsthand.
Craftsmanship Over Shortcuts
Every question in MATES was hand-written. Every feature was tested at real events. I believe in doing the work properly, even when nobody is watching.
Human Connection First
In a world increasingly mediated by screens, I want to build technology that brings people closer together in the real world, not further apart.
On Building Software That Matters
The app stores are flooded with low-effort, trend-chasing products. AI wrappers that add no value. Subscription models designed to extract money from users for features that should be free. Apps that prioritise engagement metrics over genuine utility.
I believe there is a better way. Software should solve real problems. It should be built with care and attention to detail. It should respect its users by being honest, accessible, and free from manipulative design patterns.
MATES is my proof that this approach works. A single developer, building something with purpose, can create an experience that genuinely improves people's lives, even if that improvement is simply helping a room full of strangers become friends.
Want to Get in Touch?
I love hearing from people who use MATES. Whether it is feedback, a feature request, or just a story about a great night. Reach out.