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Since 2001, SPIRAL at GANIL has been delivering radioactive ion beams of unique intensity and purity for physics experiments. Using projectile fragmentation on a graphite target and ionization in an ECR ion source via a cold transfer passage, mostly isotopes of gases lighter than Xe and fragments of volatile molecules such as O and F were post-accelerated. During the past year, a project was formed to upgrade the present facility with a 1+ to n+ charge breeding system, thus permitting the use of more versatile 1+ sources for extending the range of elements available for post-acceleration. Numerous physics projects based on the potential new capabilities of SPIRAL 1 were recently formulated in the form of letter of intents, attesting of the scientific relevance of such upgrade. This contribution will present the status of the upgrade, its positioning with respect to the SPIRAL 2 production capabilities and physics objectives.