will this allow plugging into the newer type c on an Apple and then plugging in a regular USB such as a flash drive to the other end?

yes, I did that very thing today in a MAC.

Will four of these fit side-by-side in the four receptacles of a current Mac Mini, total space about 2-1/4"? Or, how wide is the body of the male end? Thanks!

I don't know which MAC mini you have but mine has only 2 USB C type connectors and they will easily fit, if the spacing is consistent with a model that has 4 of them then yes, they should still fit as well.

Questions & Answers: StarTech.com USB31CAADP USB-C to USB Adapter - 6in - USB-IF Certified - USB-C to USB-A - USB 3.1 Gen 1 - USB C Adapter - USB Type C

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StarTech.com USB31CAADP USB-C to USB Adapter - 6in - USB-IF Certified - USB-C to USB-A - USB 3.1 Gen 1 - USB C Adapter - USB Type C

Connect your USB Type-C device to a USB Type-A device with this durable adapter
6in USB 3.0 Adapter / 6-inch USB C to USB A Male to Female Adapter / USB Type C to USB Type A Adapter M/F / Also known as USB 3.1 Gen 1 (5 Gbps)
Connect older USB 3.0 or USB 2.0 devices to newer USB 3.1 laptops or computers equipped with USB Type-C ports
Guaranteed reliability with a 2-year warranty
Compatible with USB C laptops such as the Apple MacBook, Chromebook Pixel, Dell Latitude 11 5000 2-in-1 & more

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