Where are you finding those sensors for $4? I think the main selling point is that they're set+forget and solar powered, with all the "software magic" happening in the cloud.
Sure, the extra stuff like LTE modem, battery, solar panels, casing, etc, costs a whole lot more money, but these things clearly are built cheap. The optics and imaging sensor is a joke compared to real, proper cameras.
Kirby64|5 days ago
https://www.arducam.com/arducam-ov5647-standard-raspberry-pi...
If you want a fancy one with a lens and an IR cut filter it'll run you a grand total of $35:
https://www.arducam.com/arducam-ov5647-noir-camera-board-w-m...
Sure, the extra stuff like LTE modem, battery, solar panels, casing, etc, costs a whole lot more money, but these things clearly are built cheap. The optics and imaging sensor is a joke compared to real, proper cameras.