ContentProvider necessary for SQL database sync with Google Drive

I want to design an application that can sync SQL database data to the user's google drive account.

The documentation at http://ift.tt/1eNYhY6 states that it's necessary if I want to share data with other applications.

So, one, is it necessary to use content providers in this scenario?

And two, will it be easier to maintain data and allow syncing if I do use content providers?