The streaming video service Netflix is large and getting larger. CNN reports that the service announced a milestone today, revealing that it now has more than 50 million members worldwide. That figure encompasses subscribers in 40 countries, including 36 million in the U.S.

"That compares with 56 million U.S. households that had premium cable subscriptions of some kind as of July, according to Nielsen," the story reports. "Netflix growth slowed a bit in the second quarter, with the company adding just 570,000 U.S. streaming subscribers. That compares with 630,000 in the same quarter a year ago and 2.25 million in the first quarter."

Back in May the company tacked an extra $1 onto the subscription rate for new customers, but it said the higher rate has had "minimal impact on membership growth."

"Netflix is continuing its push into original programming with shows like 'Orange Is the New Black,' which launched its second season in early June, and 'Hemlock Grove,' which premiered earlier this month. The fourth and final season of 'The Killing' is due August 1. Netflix shows garnered 31 Emmy nominations this past year," the story reports.

Netflix has a number of new programs in the pipeline, including its collaboration with Marvel Television, "Marvel's Daredevil," and "Sense8," from the Wachowski brothers. Also on the way is a still-to-be-named thriller from the creators of "Damages" that will star Kyle Chandler and Sissy Spacek.