An additional technical consideration is that the chips on their own are not usable. They require software in the ASIC, this is developed by AKP - EM does not have the source code for this software. They could pirate the compiled copy, but so what? I think even with that they can't sell it as a integrate-able product. The global electronics manufacturers need to integrate the chips into their devices. These chips are not a swap out substitute for speakers. They need to be implemented into a digital design, and this requires specific information from those who developed the chips (not just those who manufactured the chips). AKP has this information, and clearly only as part of a purchase agreement, is the full information support provided. I suspect there would also be integrated within the software on the ASIC and any other implementation software needed, some sort of activation keys, which only AKP can supply to an electronics manufacturer so as to enable the chips in the end device. I don't know for sure, just speculation, but some sort of solution would be in place. Without all this from AKP these the chips are useless.
Just because a company can produce the chips does not mean it can in any easy way steal the technology and produce it's own to sell on to device manufacturers. It is simplistic for some to propose that they can just steal IP and DIY it so easily. Sure it is possible given enough time, but not easy. And frankly, a pretty stupid move.
The other side as well is that the established electronics manufacturers are not going to risk the legal ramifications of buying off market chips. Yes some Chinese brands might buy from EM if EM went rogue and reverse engineered the software. But then it doesn't mean AKP (financial issues overcome) could not partner with an alternative to EM. There probably would be volunteers once all is proven, so as to manufacture for non-Chinese markets, which will not buy "counterfeit" chips. So let's not simplify the situation. AKP would be reasonably safe from these scenarios.
AKP is full of risk but I don't consider EM's loyalty a risk to worry about. The main issue for AKP is fabrication success ASAP so as to either not run out of funds (eventually) or not fall behind too much to allow a competitor to catch up.