Cellular IOT

[MidnightMohave]

I am interested in doing a cellular IOT project. I have not selected my application yet, but I have a couple initial questions.

1. Say I have an application that requires GPS, a camera, and possibly a Wifi AP. I could buy a processor, a cellular module, a GPS module, a camera module, and a wifi module and piece them all together. Or I could use a SOC like those found in all smart phones. Are there any cellular SOC development boards used by the common maker or is this unexplored territory? Perhaps these SOC chips require highly complex PCB design and proprietary software to program?

2. The Particle Boron comes in two models, one that uses 2G/3G and has coverage in Europe. The other uses LTE Cat M1 and provides coverage in North America. However companies like Hologram offer SIM cards with global network coverage. So theoretically it should be possible to design a device with global support right? What platform could I use if I wanted my device to work globally? Perhaps global compatibility will require using a standard with higher power consumption?

3. What is the best deal you have come across for SIMs with data? Monogoto looks pretty good at $0.35 per sim per month plus $0.01 per MB (In the US). A bit pricier in Canada at $0.17 per MB