Connections Model Exist?

I'm trying to evaluate if Community Builder will work for my needs before purchasing the higher Developer Tier.

Does Community Builder have a connections model or some way other than JDatabase to find out if 2 users are connected outside Community Builder?

I would like to customize other Joomla Extensions to be able to show and hide features based on whether or not 2 users are connected, and which type of connection.

I tried searching, but I couldn't find anything, so I thought I would just ask.

Thanks!

We've API for checking connection status, yes. You'd need to be more specific on how you intend to integrate into other extensions for me to really suggest anything more. For example if you are just acting on a Joomla event you should already be able to do this in CB Auto Actions as it has a condition for connection status.

Is the API only available for developers?

I'm exploring the idea of certain members being able to build stores in another component. Then, within these stores, they can list products publically or just to friends. And/or, without administering coupons, have a friends-only pricing.

Is the API only available for developers?

The API is available to everyone. CB is completely open source. You've access to all of its code. You do not need a Developer subscription to use the API. The Developer subscription provides everything that Professional does in addition to CB Paid Subscriptions and CB Package Builder with higher priority support.

And/or, without administering coupons, have a friends-only pricing.

Best way to do that is usually a coupon they can give to friends.